Pioneering the Path of Recycling Non-Traditional Materials

By Mark Whitley
Founder and CEO, Whits Services Corporation

Why Recycle Non-Traditional Materials?

When I first started working in appliance recycling centers in Missouri, it became clear that most conversations around waste management were limited to the usual suspects—paper, plastic, glass. But large-scale items like major appliances and used bedding were often overlooked. I saw a gap that needed filling: Why not develop systems that handle these items effectively and divert them from landfills? This question drove me to establish WSC and focus on recycling that goes beyond the conventional.

Innovating Beyond the Norm

Making strides in recycling non-traditional materials required more than just operational savvy—it demanded innovative thinking and strategic partnerships. At WSC, our role as a critical third-party administrator for major waste management firms allowed us to implement bespoke solutions for these companies. Whether it’s managing the recycling needs of over two thousand retail locations across North America or pioneering used bedding disposal programs in the Caribbean, our approach is consistent: blend creativity with sustainability to create scalable, cost-effective solutions.

However, operational success doesn’t happen by accident. My background in corporate strategy pushed me to look at the bigger picture. How could we further enhance efficiency, cut costs, and still protect our environment? The answer was clear—integrate AI. We’ve implemented data-driven analytics and AI-driven machinery to optimize sorting, predict material flows, and even streamline logistics. This technology lets us stay a step ahead, ensuring our programs remain not only innovative but also sustainable for the long haul.

The Road Ahead

As I reflect on the journey so far, I’m reminded that the real core of WSC’s success is our dedicated team. From the technicians in the field to our managers and strategic planners, everyone embodies a commitment to sustainability that makes all the difference. Looking forward, I see endless possibilities. Scaling up these initiatives means transforming more “junk” into valuable resources and expanding our reach to communities that need sustainable waste solutions the most.

The future of recycling will be driven by those willing to push the boundaries, and I’m proud to say that WSC will continue to do just that. We’ve already taken significant strides, but there’s still much work ahead. Thanks for following our journey—I’m excited to share more of what we have planned and hope you’ll join us in making responsible recycling an everyday reality.

About Mark Whitley

Mark Whitley stands at the forefront of revolutionizing recycling and waste management across North America and the Caribbean. As the founder and CEO of Whits Corporation (WSC), he has innovatively integrated sustainability with technological advancements in recycling non-traditional materials. His notable achievements include establishing robust recycling programs for major appliances and used bedding, which have been successfully operational for over a decade, demonstrating the effectiveness and sustainability of his strategies.

Prior to his current role, Mark managed appliance recycling centers in Missouri, where he significantly scaled operations to meet national demands. His entrepreneurial drive and deep understanding of the industry have solidified his reputation as a visionary leader, committed to evolving environmental stewardship alongside his acute business acumen.