After the success of Recycle Glass Day in 2008, the Glass Packaging Institute (www.gpi.org) is introducing “Recycle Glass Week,” which will kick off on Sept. 21, 2009. During that week, FEVE (the European Glass Packaging Federation) will also hold “Choose Glass Week” in several European countries, creating an international platform to promote the benefits of and encourage glass container recycling in late September.

“We are asking consumers to recycle their glass bottles and jars to help reduce the amount of recyclable materials entering landfills and help create a ‘greener’ future,” says Glass Packaging Institute president, Joseph Cattaneo. “We hope people make recycling all forms of packaging a habit this Earth Day and every day, because when we work together, we can save energy and our planet.”

During Recycle Glass Week, GPI and its member companies will hold nationwide glass recycling-related activities; provide consumers with information and opportunities to hold their own recycling events; virtually announce the winners of its 2009 Clear Choice Awards; and recognize “Friends of Glass,” those companies, organizations, and/or persons that recycle glass or promote the recycling of glass as one way to better the environment.

“Consumers continue to ask for ways they can reduce their impact on the environment, and through Recycle Glass Week, we are pleased to offer people many opportunities to participate in glass recycling activities as one way they can save energy,” adds Cattaneo.

Through creating more awareness about the environmental benefits of glass container recycling, GPI members hope to help the industry reach a national goal of 50 percent recycled-content in the manufacture of new glass bottles and jars by 2013. Using the EPA’s benefits calculator, GPI estimates energy savings from using 50 percent recycled content in all glass packages manufactured in the U.S. could save enough energy to power over 45,000 households for a year.

For more information on upcoming Recycle Glass Week activities and events, visit  http://gpi.org/learn-about-glass/recycle-glass-week/.