Logan Cook, a recent entrepreneurship graduate from the University of Utah, always felt inclined to create. While pursuing his degree, he noticed a problem with recyclable items ending up in landfills and decided to use his creativity to come up with a solution.
Cook’s business, Loop, aims to help the planet by keeping recyclables out of landfills.
Normal recycling requires that customers separate items into glass, metal, plastic, and compost. If done incorrectly, one wrong item can contaminate the entire bin and cause everything to end up in a landfill. In comes Loop: a convenient and comprehensive recycling solution.
The way Loop works is simple. For $19.99/month, customers receive an 18-gallon Loop recycling bin and place all recyclable items inside — no separating required. Contracted drivers pick up the bins and take them back to Loop’s facility for sorting. Loop then takes the separated items to their respective recycling facilities, ensuring nothing ends up in the landfill.
Loop’s mission is to break down barriers for the everyday recycler, helping the environment along the way. The simplicity of placing all recyclables in one bin allows everyone to recycle effectively, regardless of their knowledge of recycling. Cook is constantly looking for creative ways to help the environment. “If you’re going to recycle, you might as well do it right,” he said.
Beyond residential clients, Loop also innovatively services nine Megaplex theaters. In collaboration with Recyclops, Loop takes the leftover popcorn and pizza from the theaters and brings them to cattle farms and food pantries, in addition to servicing their regular recycling. A focus on innovation, convenience, and problem-solving sets Loop apart from the competition.
Looking forward, Cook wants to expand the operating area of Loop to include the entire Salt Lake City region. He also wants to expand the range of items they accept. Between the current impact Loop is making and Cook’s plans, Loop will certainly be a name to watch out for.
More articles like this in ‘Student Innovation @ the U!’
Find this article and a lot more in the 2024 “Student Innovation @ the U” report. The publication is presented by the Lassonde Entrepreneur Institute to celebrate student innovators, change-makers, and entrepreneurs.
