Chicago, Ill. – First time exhibitor Mid America Paper Recycling (booth 221) plans to showcase the benefits of an industry-first waste audit report and explain recycling best practices at the TAPPI CorrExpo, October 14-16 at the Denver Convention Center.

One of the largest independent brokers, processors and exporters of recovered paper in the Central United States, Chicago-based MAPR has deep roots in the printing industry dating back to when it was founded in 1926. As large commercial printers and paperboard converters search for new methods to improve their revenue sources, MAPR’s experience in the recycling process can likely help them.

“I felt our decision to exhibit at TAPPI CorrExpo for the first time this year was a natural. We have been working with paper industry and corrugated users for years,” said Paul Pirkle, who joined Mid America Paper Recycling as president last year.

“This year we have shifted the focus to educating our customers about the hidden benefits of their waste. We plan to do the same with those who visit our booth and explain the tremendous value there is in having a continuous improvement plan in place. Our staff will explain how it works and why it is a key component for all types of companies, from small businesses to the Fortune 500.”

Pirkle recently attended AICC, The Independent Packaging Association’s annual meeting in Toronto, September 16-18. He said the leadership conference opened the door to some worthwhile discussions.

“We are relatively new members of AICC and I found it to be a great venue for networking. Some of the conversations allowed me the opportunity to talk about our new Audit Process,” said Pirkle. “It gave me the chance to explain the steps involved and how they can grow the worth of the waste that is produced. The overall continuous improvement process that encompasses waste generation, in-plant processes, safety, and logistics are all researched so that our customers can recognize more revenue per ton. I’m expecting to have good conversations in Denver as well.”

Since the manufacturing operations of paper or containerboard facilities often create tons of waste annually – ranging from pre-consumer, high-grade recyclable paper to production trim and paperboard – Mid America’s Audit Process can help companies realize significant revenues. Pirkle believes the timing is right to begin a dialogue now.

“Many corrugators understand that the economics of waste streams are cyclical. So it is vital to establish a program with process steps that encompass waste generation, collection procedures, and setting goals and objectives to improve revenue contributions,” said Pirkle.

“At corrugated and converting plants, we usually find ways to improve an inadequate process and/or non-compliance from their employees. Even though best practices have not been widely shared in our industry, our Audit Process is a huge step in the right direction. Combined with the expertise of our staff, we have all the tools in place to help. That’s the message we want to hit home at TAPPI CorrExpo. Most people don’t realize their waste is worth more than they think it is.”

For those interested in filling out the free Waste Audit Survey, it takes only 10 minutes to complete online. Or learn more by stopping by booth 221 at TAPPI CorrExpo and talking to MAPR representatives who can answer all of your questions.