Celebrating 10 Years of Mattress Recycling Success in Connecticut

A Decade of Mattress Recycling Excellence in Connecticut

The Mattress Recycling Council (MRC) proudly presents its annual report for 2024-2025, reflecting on ten fruitful years of the Bye Bye Mattress program in Connecticut. Launched as a pioneering initiative, Connecticut stands at the forefront of mattress recycling, demonstrating the state's commitment to responsible waste disposal and environmental sustainability.

Over the last decade, Connecticut’s innovative program has successfully recycled over 1.9 million mattresses, an achievement comparable to filling the PeoplesBank Arena in Hartford three times over. The recycling effort has not only preserved significant amounts of space in landfills but has also transformed discarded materials into reusable resources.

In the latest fiscal year, MRC collected an impressive total of 212,789 mattresses and their foundations across Connecticut. These collections yielded a remarkable recovery of 3,643 tons of materials, including steel, foam, fiber, and wood. By diverting these materials from the waste stream, the program actively reintroduces valuable resources back into the economy, highlighting the necessity and benefits of recycling.

Participation in the Bye Bye Mattress program has seen significant growth, with 157 municipalities across Connecticut engaging in recycling efforts. Recent milestones included increased mattress collections from retail stores and educational institutions, along with new partnerships established with four participants from the lodging industry. Notably, a record number of mattresses were collected from the Naval Submarine Base in New London, signifying a commendable commitment to sustainability.

Dan McGowan, MRC’s Northeast Program Manager, emphasized the success of the Bye Bye Mattress initiative as it reached this significant 10-year milestone. He stated, "This is a testament to the program's enduring value and effectiveness. Our extensive statewide network not only prevents mattresses from contributing to landfill waste but also fosters local employment opportunities and encourages the repurposing of materials that would otherwise be discarded. This program represents a win for the environment, our communities, and the local economy."

The journey of the Bye Bye Mattress program reflects a broader shift towards sustainable living, accentuating the importance of community involvement in recycling practices. As awareness grows, so does collaboration among businesses, municipalities, and residents, all contributing to a cleaner, greener Connecticut.

To find more information on how to recycle your mattress or locate a collection site near you, visit ByeByeMattress.com. To explore MRC’s impact and achievements in Connecticut, please click here.

In summary, the Mattress Recycling Council’s initiative in Connecticut highlights the potential for large-scale recycling programs to create positive environmental impacts. As Connecticut continues to lead the way in mattress recycling, the future looks promising with ongoing efforts to enhance the program and engage the community in sustainable practices.

This decade-long journey is not just a celebration of successful recycling; it’s a call to action for all states to adopt similar measures, ensuring that waste management practices not only protect the environment but also enhance the quality of life for current and future generations.