Sustainability — Our Environmental Commitment
Every IBC we recondition and resell is one less container in a landfill and one less container manufactured from scratch. Here's how we're building a more sustainable future.
The Case for IBC Reuse
Millions of IBC totes are manufactured worldwide every year. Each one requires approximately 25 pounds of virgin HDPE plastic, 40 pounds of steel, and significant amounts of energy and water to produce. Yet thousands of these engineered-for-reuse containers are discarded after a single use.
This is a massive waste — both economically and environmentally. IBC totes are specifically designed for multiple life cycles. The HDPE bottle can be reused or reconditioned multiple times. The steel cage can last for decades. The pallet is virtually indestructible.
At Composite IBCs, we exist to close this gap. By collecting, reconditioning, and reselling used IBC totes, we extend their useful life by 5-10 years and prevent thousands of containers from entering the waste stream every year.
Did You Know?
A single composite IBC can be reused 5-10 times before needing replacement, and individual components (cage, pallet) can last 20+ years.
Manufacturing a new IBC produces approximately 120 kg of CO2. Reconditioning a used one produces roughly 48 kg — a 60% reduction.
HDPE plastic takes hundreds of years to decompose in a landfill. Every IBC we keep in circulation is 130+ lbs of plastic and steel staying out of the waste stream.
Our Environmental Impact
These numbers represent the cumulative environmental impact of our IBC reuse and reconditioning operations over our years in business.
By reconditioning and reselling used HDPE bottles instead of discarding them
Cages and pallets that continue their service life or are responsibly recycled
Each one representing less manufacturing waste and fewer raw materials consumed
Reconditioning an IBC produces roughly 60% less CO2 than manufacturing a new one
Our Circular Economy Model
Instead of the traditional "make, use, dispose" model, we operate a circular system where IBC containers are continuously collected, restored, and returned to service. Here's how the cycle works:
Collection & Buyback
We purchase used IBCs from businesses across the country through our buyback program. Instead of sending empty containers to a landfill or scrap yard, companies sell them back to us. We arrange pickup from their facility, making it easy and profitable to participate in the circular economy.
Inspection & Sorting
Every IBC we receive is carefully inspected and sorted by condition. We evaluate the bottle integrity, cage condition, valve functionality, and pallet structure. Containers are categorized for cleaning and resale, reconditioning, rebottling, or recycling — ensuring the highest value use for each container.
Reconditioning & Cleaning
IBCs selected for reconditioning undergo a thorough restoration process. This includes interior and exterior cleaning, valve inspection and replacement, new gasket installation, pressure testing, and cage repair. The result is a container that performs like new — extending its useful life by years.
Resale & Reuse
Cleaned and reconditioned IBCs are sold to new customers who put them back to work — storing and transporting liquids across dozens of industries. By buying used, our customers save money while directly contributing to waste reduction. A single IBC can serve multiple businesses over its 5-10 year lifespan.
End-of-Life Recycling
When an IBC finally reaches the end of its useful life, we ensure responsible recycling. HDPE bottles are ground into pellets for use in new plastic products. Steel cages and pallets are sent to steel recyclers. Very little ends up in a landfill. Even at end of life, IBCs contribute to the circular economy.
New vs Reconditioned: Environmental Comparison
Every used IBC that gets reconditioned instead of replaced with a new one creates measurable environmental savings. Here's how the numbers compare:
| Metric | Manufacturing New IBC | Reconditioning Used IBC | Environmental Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raw Materials | ~25 lbs virgin HDPE + ~40 lbs new steel | Zero new materials (cleaning agents only) | 100% material savings |
| Energy Consumption | ~250 kWh per unit | ~50 kWh per unit | 80% energy savings |
| CO2 Emissions | ~120 kg CO2 per unit | ~48 kg CO2 per unit | 60% emission reduction |
| Water Usage | ~200 gallons per unit | ~30 gallons per unit | 85% water savings |
| Landfill Waste | Previous container discarded (~130 lbs) | Zero waste (container continues in service) | 100% waste reduction |
Our Environmental Practices
Beyond IBC reuse, we implement sustainable practices throughout our operations — from water conservation to energy efficiency.
Water Conservation
Our cleaning processes are designed to minimize water usage. We use high-pressure, low-volume cleaning systems that reduce water consumption by up to 40% compared to traditional methods. Wash water is treated and recycled wherever possible.
Energy Efficiency
Reconditioning an IBC uses a fraction of the energy required to manufacture a new one. Our facilities use energy-efficient equipment, LED lighting, and optimized processes to minimize our energy footprint. We continuously look for ways to reduce energy consumption.
Waste Minimization
We operate with a near-zero waste philosophy. IBC components that can't be reused are recycled. Packaging materials are minimized and recycled. Old gaskets and worn parts are collected and disposed of responsibly. We track our waste metrics and work to reduce them year over year.
Responsible Chemical Management
All cleaning chemicals we use are selected for effectiveness and environmental safety. We comply with all EPA regulations for chemical storage, use, and disposal. Residual chemicals from IBC cleaning are properly treated before discharge.
Local Sourcing When Possible
We prioritize sourcing used IBCs from nearby businesses to minimize transportation distances and associated emissions. Our regional pickup routes are optimized for fuel efficiency, and we consolidate shipments whenever possible.
Continuous Improvement
Sustainability is not a destination — it's a journey. We regularly audit our processes, track our environmental metrics, and invest in better equipment and methods. Our goal is to reduce our environmental impact every year while growing our business.
How Your Business Can Participate
Every business that buys used IBCs, sells surplus containers back, or chooses reconditioning over replacement is contributing to a more sustainable industrial supply chain. Here's how you can be part of the solution:
Buy Used IBCs
Get the same reliable containers at 40-60% less than new, while reducing manufacturing demand and waste.
Browse ProductsSell Your Surplus IBCs
Don't throw away empty IBCs. Sell them back to us through our buyback program and earn money while keeping containers in circulation.
Buyback ProgramChoose Reconditioning
Instead of replacing worn IBCs with new ones, have them professionally reconditioned. It costs less and extends their life significantly.
Reconditioning ServicesRecycle End-of-Life IBCs
When an IBC truly can't be reused, our disposal service ensures every component is recycled responsibly.
Disposal ServicesOur Sustainability Pledge
We are committed to making the IBC industry more sustainable, one container at a time. We pledge to continuously reduce our environmental impact, maximize the useful life of every IBC we handle, responsibly recycle what can't be reused, and help our customers achieve their own sustainability goals through smarter container choices.
Ready to Make a Sustainable Choice?
Buy used IBCs, sell your surplus containers, or explore our reconditioning services. Every step toward IBC reuse is a step toward a greener future.