Supplier Spotlight: Circular Economy Turns 1,600 Tons of Plastic into Trex Decks

April 07, 2021

As the world's largest manufacturer of composite decking and railing and a leader in outdoor living products, Trex has helped Home Depot customers create beautiful and sustainable outdoor spaces for years. But its contribution to the circular economy is what makes this partnership a model of sustainable innovation.

In a circular economy, waste that would normally negatively impact the environment is reimagined into new products and kept out of landfills. In the case of Trex decking, that waste is the plastic shrink wrap supply chains use to secure merchandise onto pallets. Together, Trex and The Home Depot convert more than 1,600 tons of plastic waste into wood-alternative decking every year.

As the cost of lumber climbs, so does the demand for alternative building materials. Besides helping the environment, Trex's materials offer safe and affordable solutions for homebuilders and contractors faced with high lumber prices due to supply shortages. Trex's high-performance and eco-friendly materials benefit the construction, manufacturing and real estate industries.

With all these benefits, it's no wonder the partnership between Trex and The Home Depot has garnered industry recognition. In 2016, Trex was named the Home Depot's Sustainable Partner of the Year. In 2020, the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals recognized Ron Jarvis, Home Depot's chief sustainability officer and vice president of environmental innovation, with the Supply Chain Sustainability Award.

Interested in learning more about Home Depot's suppliers and products that contribute to the circular economy? See how plastic pots become hanging baskets and EPS foam becomes insulation. Learn more about the company's sustainability efforts in the Responsibility Report.