Western Specialty a divison of Independent Can, Manufacturer of Fine Decorative Metal Packaging

Steel Tins - #1 Sustainable Package

Separation By Magnet

Recycling Tins Through Reuse

Tins Made From Steel – The #1 Sustainable Package

A stock or custom tin can is the best choice you can make for sustainability. Decorative tins made from tin-plated steel are infinitely recyclable. Recycling a tin package uses fewer resources and energy than for other materials. Each tin can contains between 25 and 60% recycled steel.

March 18th 2009 - World Steel Association reports that the global steel can recycling rate has reached its highest record level of 68%. Steel Can Recycling Statistics

Custom tin containers for coffee, tea and other consumables extend shelf life and eliminate the need for plastic valves and liners which are less recyclable.

Decorative tins are not usually thrown away and are frequently recycled through reuse or kept as a collectible.

Quick Facts About Steel Packaging:

Recycling steel uses 60% less energy than making new
Every can that you buy is at least 25% recycled steel
Steel can be easily separated from other waste with a magnet
There are more than 2,000 scrap steel processors in the US
Every 2,000 lbs. of recycled steel saves 2,500 lbs. of iron ore, 1400 lbs. of coal and 120 lbs of limestone
Each year, more steel is recycled than glass, paper, aluminum and plastic combined

Independent Can Initiatives

Independent Can was one of the first companies to be a part of Maryland's registry of green companies. Maryland Green Registry Web Site

Long before environmentalism was in vogue, we took initiatives and implemented programs to reduce waste, save energy, and eliminate pollutants.

Having an efficient, environmentally conscious operation contains costs for our customers and ensures a better world for future generations.

Paperless communications, reused and recycled pallets, cartons, packing materials and solvents are a small part of our in-house initiatives. We also employ energy efficient lighting, heating and cooling solutions.

Through aggressive voluntary efforts, we strive to take initiatives that will insure the continuation of our efficient operations while protecting the environment. Independent Can is putting together an Environmental Management System for all of our locations based on the model created for our new facility in Ft. Madison, IA.

In the design and construction of this new plant we have incorporated geothermic heating and cooling systems. The additional space will allow for the future expansion of the business and for the current operation to be more efficient.

Our Green Committee meets monthly to discuss progress and generate new programs based on employee and management input, research and suggestions. We participate with local organizations and attend environmental conferences held by our local government.

For more information on steel recycling visit:

www.recycle-steel.org
www.steel.org
www.sustainable-steel.org

For more detail on the environmental initiatives at Independent Can, contact us.