Greenville, Mississippi, Launches State’s First Aluminum Can Recycling Program with Cash Rewards

Greenville Takes Lead in Aluminum Recycling with Cash-for-Cans Initiative

Greenville, Mississippi, has launched a groundbreaking aluminum recycling program that rewards residents with instant cash payments. This initiative, announced on Earth Day, is a first for the state and part of a national push to improve aluminum beverage can recycling.

Thanks to a partnership with Every Can Counts U.S., Replenysh, and the Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative (MRCTI), Greenville now hosts the second Cans for Cash Circularity Center in the country. As a result, residents can earn $0.30 per pound of aluminum cans dropped off at the site.

Moreover, the program was designed to serve areas with limited recycling access—especially communities along the Mississippi River. This move strengthens the city’s environmental impact while also boosting local economic engagement.

Earth Day Launch Highlights Community and Economic Benefits

According to Greenville Mayor Errick D. Simmons, the center is a “self-sustaining model” that will support future recycling efforts. Not only does it offer financial rewards to residents, but it also funnels extra revenue into community sustainability programs. Therefore, this program benefits both the environment and the local economy.

In addition, Replenysh, based in Los Angeles, supplies the digital infrastructure behind the program. With its platform, Greenville can track collections and deliver fast digital payouts to residents. This ease of use encourages more people to participate.

“Many cities lack trusted recycling systems,” said Replenysh CEO Mark Armen. “However, with the Cans for Cash model, communities can turn recyclable aluminum into real value.”

Technology and Market Demand Drive Aluminum Recycling Success

Scott Breen, Senior VP of Sustainability at the Can Manufacturers Institute (CMI), emphasized the broader mission. “This program leverages strong aluminum demand, technology, and public engagement to increase recycling,” he stated. In fact, used aluminum beverage cans (UBCs) remain among the most valuable and easily recyclable materials in the market.

Before dropping off cans, participants must rinse them and ensure they are free from other waste. Furthermore, separating aluminum from plastic bottles is required for acceptance.

This initiative, launched on Earth Day, reinforces Greenville’s role as a recycling pioneer in the region. It also sets the stage for more cities to follow this practical, reward-based approach to environmental action.