The Western North Carolina Brewery Recycling Co-Operative

The Western North Carolina (WNC) Brewery Recycling Co-operative is an ongoing effort to improve recycling in the region. The co-operative has partnered with Sonoco Recycling to create infrastructure for recycling bulk, source-separated industry waste that would otherwise go to landfill. While the co-operative was created with brewery hard-to-recycle materials in mind, it is free and open to all businesses interested in participating!

How to Join the Co-Operative

The co-operative is open to any business that is interested in participating. However, you must opt-in to the program before dropping off materials. Fill out the Co-op Vendor Form and email to carol.james-gilchrist@sonoco.com to formally join the co-operative.

Materials Recycled Through the Co-operative

Materials must be source separated, clean, and free of contaminants. See more information on materials and collection methods here.

Where to Drop Off Materials

The drop off location is staged at Sonoco Recycling of WNC at 1291 Sand Hill Rd, Candler, NC. See a map with drop off information here.

How to Drop Off Materials

The co-operative drop off is self-serve and open during Sonoco’s normal business hours, Monday to Friday, 6:00am – 4:00pm. When dropping off your materials, co-op members are asked to fill out the sign-in sheet located at the drop off area with your business name and a brief description of what you dropped off. If you need assistance or are swapping out gaylords, you must call ahead to (828)418-0777.

Expectations for Participants

By participating in the WNC Brewery Recycling Co-operative, you agree to follow all program guidelines, including the material handling and safety requirements highlighted below. If a business repeatedly fails to comply with the co-operative’s guidelines, they will be removed from the program at the discretion of Sonoco Recycling.

• Only drop off materials during business hours
• Collect materials in the manner specified above – avoid contamination.
• Only drop off materials included in the co-operative.

For More Information

If you have specific questions about what is included in the co-op and how to collect or drop off recyclables, reach out to Sonoco Recycling. Otherwise, email sustainability@sierranevada.com for general inquiries.