recycling

The Hidden Costs of Landfilling Plastic Scrap — and How Selling It Strengthens Your Bottom Line

by

The Hidden Costs of Landfilling Plastic Scrap — and How Selling It Strengthens Your Bottom Line

plastic scrap buyer

Manufacturers across the U.S. are re‑evaluating what happens to their plastic scrap. For years, landfilling was treated as the default option—simple, familiar, and seemingly inexpensive. But today, the economics have shifted. Disposal fees are rising, sustainability expectations are tightening, and high‑quality post‑industrial scrap is in greater demand than ever.

The result is clear: landfilling plastic scrap is no longer the cost‑effective choice it once appeared to be.
 Selling that same material can unlock new revenue, reduce waste, and strengthen your operational efficiency.

This article breaks down the hidden costs of landfilling—and why more manufacturers are turning to trusted scrap buyers to turn waste into profit.

Landfilling Plastic Scrap Is More Expensive Than It Looks

Many manufacturers underestimate the true cost of disposal. Beyond the per‑ton tipping fees, there are several hidden expenses:

• Transportation and handling

Hauling scrap to a landfill requires labor, equipment, fuel, and scheduling. These costs add up, especially for high‑volume operations.

• Lost material value

Plastic scrap—especially clean, sorted post‑industrial material—has real market value. Every pound sent to a landfill is revenue left on the table.

• Rising landfill fees

Across the country, landfill rates continue to increase as space becomes limited and regulations tighten. What was once a minor line item is now a growing operational cost.

• ESG and compliance pressure

Manufacturers are increasingly evaluated on sustainability performance. Landfilling recyclable material can negatively impact ESG reporting, customer perception, and even contract eligibility.

Benefits

Manufacturers who shift from landfilling to selling scrap often see a rapid improvement in their bottom line.

• New revenue streams

Clean, uncontaminated scrap—HDPE, PP, PET, LDPE, engineering plastics—commands strong demand from recyclers and reprocessors.

• Lower disposal costs

Every pound sold is a pound not paid for at the landfill. Many manufacturers eliminate disposal fees entirely.

• More efficient material flow

Buyers often provide guidance on sorting, baling, or packaging, helping manufacturers streamline internal processes and reduce waste handling time.

• Better long‑term pricing stability

Reliable scrap buyers offer consistent demand, even when virgin resin markets fluctuate.

Selling Scrap Supports Sustainability and Customer Expectations

Sustainability is no longer optional. OEMs, retailers, and consumers expect manufacturers to reduce waste and support circular material flows.

• Scrap becomes feedstock for new products

Instead of sitting in a landfill for centuries, your material re‑enters the supply chain.

• Stronger ESG reporting

Selling scrap improves waste‑diversion metrics and supports sustainability certifications.

• Competitive advantage

Manufacturers who demonstrate responsible material management often win more business—especially from brands with recycled‑content goals.

High‑Quality Scrap Is in Demand—Buyers Need What You Produce

Recyclers and reprocessors depend on clean, consistent post‑industrial scrap. Manufacturers are uniquely positioned to supply it because:

  • It’s cleaner than post‑consumer material
  • It’s easier to sort and identify
  • It has predictable resin types and colors
  • It requires less processing to reintroduce into manufacturing streams

This makes your scrap more valuable—and more attractive to buyers looking for reliable supply.

Partnering With the Right Buyer Makes the Process Simple

Selling scrap shouldn’t be complicated. The right buyer will:

  • Provide clear specifications
  • Offer competitive pricing
  • Arrange pickup or logistics
  • Ensure ethical, compliant recycling
  • Maintain consistent communication

Manufacturers who work with trusted buyers often find the transition from landfilling to selling is easier than expected.

Final Takeaway

Landfilling plastic scrap drains money, wastes valuable material, and works against modern sustainability expectations. Selling that same scrap transforms a cost center into a profit center—while supporting a more circular, efficient manufacturing ecosystem.

Manufacturers can rely on Domino Plastics for all their plastic scrap recycling needs. Whether you generate HDPE, PP, PET, LDPE, or engineering‑grade materials, Domino Plastics is ready to help you turn your scrap into revenue. Contact Domino Plastics today for a fast, competitive quote on your plastic materials. 

Call (631) 751-1995, text/call (512) 972-5632, email Joe@domplas.com or complete our online contact form. 

U.S. Lawmakers Signal Strong Support for Recycling Innovation — What It Means for Plastic Scrap Buyers

by

As federal lawmakers push for stronger recycling systems, Domino Plastics sees a bright future for the plastic scrap industry. On July 17, the House Energy & Commerce Subcommittee on Environment held a hearing titled: “Beyond the Blue Bin: Forging a Federal Landscape for Recycling Innovation and Economic Growth.”

The hearing focused on how recycling—especially chemical recycling and e-waste recovery—can help drive domestic job creation, support manufacturing, and reduce dependence on foreign materials.

Federal Support for Smarter Recycling Systems

At the hearing, members of Congress and industry leaders discussed how modernizing recycling infrastructure is critical to U.S. competitiveness. Much of the focus was on plastics, and how technology and national policy can improve how we recover, process, and reuse materials.

Key points from the hearing included:

  • Recognizing chemical recycling as a manufacturing process to remove regulatory roadblocks
  • Creating national recycling standards to unify fragmented state and local programs
  • Enhancing U.S. participation in global plastic policy frameworks
  • Supporting better labeling, consumer education, and access to recycling systems

What This Means for Domino Plastics

Since 1984, Domino Plastics has been helping manufacturers recycle post-industrial plastic scrap. This renewed federal focus reinforces the importance of our work and opens new opportunities for companies that prioritize clean, sorted, and reusable plastic material.

Here’s why it matters:

  • Demand for quality plastic scrap is likely to increase as advanced recycling facilities come online
  • Clearer recycling standards will make it easier for businesses to comply and participate
  • Economic incentives and infrastructure improvements could expand access to new markets
  • Public and private investment in recycling technology may increase the value of recovered materials

Our Perspective

Domino Plastics has always believed that recycling is more than just waste management—it’s a vital part of a circular industrial economy. These policy developments confirm that plastic scrap buyers are essential to improving how the country handles materials.

We remain committed to helping manufacturers turn scrap into opportunity with fast service, fair pricing, and decades of experience.

Contact us today to discuss your plastic scrap recycling needs:
Phone: (631) 751-1995
Text: (516) 972-5632
Email: Joe@domplas.com

Sources

U.S. House Energy & Commerce Committee – Hearing Summary

Waste Dive – Congressional Hearing on Recycling

Recycling Today – Industry Leaders Testify Before Congress

Celebrating 40 Years of Plastic Scrap Recycling: Domino Plastics Company, Since 1984

by
domino plastics

In 1984, Domino Plastics Company opened its doors with a clear mission: to help manufacturers across the United States turn plastic scrap into opportunity. Four decades later, we’re proud to celebrate 40 years of service, innovation, and strong relationships in the plastics recycling industry.

From our humble beginnings to becoming a nationwide leader in plastic scrap buying, Domino Plastics has remained committed to sustainability, customer satisfaction, and the value of recycling. What began as a small operation has grown into a trusted name in the plastics industry—recognized for our fast pickup, competitive pricing, and our ability to handle all types and forms of post-industrial plastic scrap.

A Legacy of Partnership

Our business was built on partnerships. For 40 years, we’ve worked hand-in-hand with manufacturers, molders, and processors to streamline the process of selling plastic scrap—saving them time, reducing waste, and supporting their bottom line. Whether it’s polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), ABS, nylon, PVC, or other resins, we’ve remained a reliable buyer across industries.

As markets have shifted and environmental priorities have evolved, we’ve stayed ahead of the curve by expanding our network, optimizing logistics, and continuously improving the ways we do business. Our team works hard every day to provide exceptional service, fast turnaround, and responsible recycling solutions tailored to our clients’ needs.

Built to Last

What’s the secret to staying in business for 40 years? For us, it’s simple: consistency, communication, and care.

We’ve invested in long-term relationships—some of our customers have been with us since the very beginning. We’ve adapted with the times while holding onto the values that made us successful: honesty, responsiveness, and doing right by the people we work with.

While the industry has changed since 1984, our mission remains the same: to make plastic recycling easier, more efficient, and more profitable for our clients.

Looking Ahead

As we celebrate this milestone, we’re not just looking back—we’re looking forward. Our goal is to continue growing, innovating, and finding new ways to serve the industry and the planet. From expanding our sourcing and resale network to embracing new technologies in materials handling and recycling, Domino Plastics remains focused on evolving with the industry and delivering value well into the future.

We want to thank our customers, partners, and team members who’ve been part of this journey. Your trust and support have made our success possible, and we’re excited to keep building together.

Celebrate With Us

If you’ve worked with us over the years, thank you. If you’re just finding us now—welcome. Let’s work together to keep plastic scrap out of landfills and in the supply chain where it belongs.

Contact Domino Plastics to Sell Your Scrap
📧 Joe@domplas.com
📞 Call (631) 751-1995
📱 Text (516) 972-5632

What Makes Domino Plastics the Top Choice for Plastic Manufacturers

by

What Makes Domino Plastics the Top Choice for Plastic Manufacturers

Domino Plastics stands out as the top choice for plastic manufacturers due to several key factors:

  1. Extensive Experience: With 40 years in the business, Domino Plastics has a proven track record in the plastic recycling industry, offering reliable and trustworthy services to manufacturers across the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
  2. Comprehensive Service: As a full-service plastic recycling company, Domino Plastics handles a wide range of post-industrial plastic scrap, including HDPE, LDPE, PP, PVC, PET, ABS, and more. We buy various forms of plastic waste such as regrind, film scrap, lumps, reprocessed pellets, and obsolete inventory.
  3. Strategic Logistics: The company’s strategically located warehouses ensure fast and efficient pickup services nationwide, minimizing downtime and maximizing convenience for manufacturers.
  4. Competitive Pricing and Fast Quotes: Domino Plastics offers competitive prices for scrap plastic and provides quick quotes, ensuring that manufacturers get the best value for their materials.
  5. Reliable Payments: Known for our payment integrity, Domino Plastics has a long history of making timely and reliable payments, backed by strong bank and trade references.

These attributes make Domino Plastics a trusted partner for plastic manufacturers looking to efficiently manage their plastic scrap and recycling needs.

Contact Domino Plastics today to sell your scrap plastic. Call (631) 751-1995, text (516) 972-5632, email Joe@domplas.com

plastic scrap
PVCR
plastic scrap
plastic scrap
LDPE
plastic scrap
plastic scrap
virgin plastic
plastic scrap trader
plastic scrap
we buy plastic scrap
domino plastics
sell scrap plastic
plastic scrap
plastic scrap

Countries meet in Kenya to thrash out global plastic pollution treaty

by

Countries meet in Kenya to thrash out global plastic pollution treaty

Government delegations will gather in Nairobi, Kenya, to hammer out details of what could be the first global treaty to tackle the plastic pollution crisis.

A key focus for the discussions on Monday will be whether targets to restrict plastic production should be decided unilaterally or whether states should choose their own targets; this is, say environmentalists, the “centre of gravity” for the treaty’s ambition.

Read the full story here: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/nov/12/countries-meeting-nairobi-kenya-global-plastic-pollution-treaty

Fungi makes a meal of hard-to-recycle plastic

by

Fungi makes a meal of hard-to-recycle plastic

Polypropylene

via Phys.org

Polypropylene, a hard-to-recycle plastic, has successfully been biodegraded by two strains of fungi in a new experiment led by researchers at the University of Sydney.

Polypropylene has long been recycling’s head scratching riddle. A common plastic used for a wide variety of products from packaging and toys to furnishing and fashion, it accounts for roughly 28% of the world’s plastic waste, but only 1% of it is recycled.

Read the full story here: https://phys.org/news/2023-04-fungi-meal-hard-to-recycle-plastic.html

DOE Invests $13.4 Million to Combat Plastic Waste, Reduce Plastic Industry Emissions

by

via Energy.gov

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced $13.4 million in funding for next generation plastics technologies that reduce the energy consumption and carbon emissions of single-use plastics. The seven selected research and development (R&D) projects — led by industry and universities — will convert plastic films into more valuable materials and design new plastics that are more recyclable and biodegradable. This investment advances  DOE’s work to address the challenges of plastic waste recycling and supports the Biden Administration’s efforts to build a clean energy economy and ensure the U.S. reaches net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. 

Read the full story here: https://www.energy.gov/articles/doe-invests-134-million-combat-plastic-waste-reduce-plastic-industry-emissions

Mouse study shows microplastics infiltrate blood brain barrier

by

Mouse study shows microplastics infiltrate blood brain barrier

Much of the millions of metric tons of plastic waste that washes into the sea each year is broken down into tiny fragments by the forces of the ocean, and researchers are beginning to piece together what this means for organisms that consume them. Scientists in Korea have turned their attention toward the top of the food chain by exploring the threat these particles pose to mammal brains, where they were found to act as toxic substances.

In recent years, studies have revealed the kind of threat microplastics pose to marine creatures. This has included weakening the adhesive abilities of muscles, impairing the cognitive ability of hermit crabs and causing aneurysms and reproductive changes in fish. They’ve turned up in the guts of sea turtles all over the world, and been discovered in seal poo as evidence of them traveling up the food chain. Research has also shown they can alter the shape of human lung cells.

Read the full story here: https://newatlas.com/environment/microplastics-blood-brain-barrier/