Circular Colorado continues to lead the way towards a circular economy with an expansion of the reach of the Circular Transportation Network (CTN). The CTN, launched in January 2025, is a collaboration between the Circular Economy Development Center (CEDC), Colorado-based businesses, and local communities dedicated to increasing the collection of recyclable materials that currently are not being recycled. Using a backhaul model, materials are collected and transported to a transload facility where they are aggregated, baled and sent by truck or rail to processors and manufacturers.
Initially the CTN collected commercial waste products, but with support from The Recycling Partnership’s Film & Flexibles Recycling Coalition, the CTN is expanding its reach to collect residential plastic film and flexible packaging. This expansion is projected to divert an additional 20 tons of plastic film and flexible packaging annually.
School Districts: A Critical Partner in Scaling Impact
To help maximize the recovery of plastic film and flexible packaging, school districts across Colorado are being invited to join the CTN. Schools will serve as central collection hubs and their participation will not only divert more waste from landfills but also create opportunities for students, teachers, and families to play an active role in building Colorado’s circular economy.
Advancing Colorado’s Circular Future
By connecting local schools, rural communities, and end markets, the CTN is exemplifying how innovative logistics, strategic funding, and community engagement can make recycling more inclusive, efficient, and sustainable.
As more school districts and communities come on board, the CTN will continue to grow not just as a transportation network, but as a model for how to increase recycling rates for communities across the country, a critical element of moving towards a circular economy..
Ready to Join the Network?
Interested in enrolling your school district? Contact Circular Colorado today to learn more or take a look at the School District Film Recycling Guide, which outlines everything from materials accepted to tips for involving students and staff. All schools need to do is collect and consolidate materials—CTN takes care of the rest.