The Circular Economy: Recycling Visionary Rick Perez

Have you ever wondered why plastic wrap cannot be recycled? We did!

The world's cities generate billions of tons of solid waste every year. With population growth and urbanization, annual waste generation is expected to increase 70% by 2050 according to the World Bank. In this episode, Rick shares how he is helping companies discover their "hidden green assets," turning trash into cash.

Learn about Rick Perez, founder of Avangard Innovative, one of the largest recycling and waste managers in the U.S. Avangard’s focus is on lowering waste costs, while contributing to a circular economy. Rick talks to us about how trash can be viewed as more than waste - as a revenue stream! Rick discusses how he had the vision to start Avangard 30 years ago, why banning plastics may not be necessary, and how his company has thrived with a diverse team in 11 countries.

"I sleep well at night knowing that when I wake up in the morning, people are happy and have a purposeful job," says Rick. "Our employees know our focus is the environment, and how we are solving these issues."

Eva Yazhari