At Nexus Circular, we are always inspired by the small actions that have big impacts. Recently, we have seen an incredible example of community-driven sustainability in action, led by Gray McCalley, our General Counsel, and his family. Since October 2023, Gray has been collecting plastic packaging from local businesses in Atlanta and bringing it to our plant for recycling – helping reduce waste and fostering a circular economy.
It all started with a conversation at a local baby shop, Baby Braithwaite, where Gray’s daughter, Lizzie White, works. She noticed that baby clothes were packaged in flexible plastic film, which traditional recycling programs can’t and don’t handle. Lizzie asked if Nexus Circular could process this plastic packaging which, since normal recyclers cannot, was otherwise destined for the dumpster? Nexus Circular’s answer was a resounding: “Yes!” From there, Gray and she worked with Baby Braithwaite to start diverting the packaging from landfills.
Gray decided to approach other businesses in the same strip center, including West Stride, Lake Pajamas, Hand in Pocket, and H. Stockton. Each business, all women-owned (except the men’s clothier), was eager to participate. Every ten days or so, Gray or his daughter visits the shops to collect the plastic packaging—turning it into a family activity and a powerful community effort.
Since October 2023, over 2,400 lbs. (over 1 metric ton) of plastic film have been recycled through this initiative. The positive response from businesses and their customers has been inspiring, with many expressing their gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to a greener future. As one business owner put it, “It gives hope in a landscape where it often seems futile.”
This initiative is a perfect example of how small businesses, working together, can make a big difference. Nexus Circular is proud to support these efforts, demonstrating the momentum and impact of community collaboration on environmental sustainability.
All made possible by Gray McCalley, General Counsel at Nexus Circular and the recycling
efforts of these shop owners:
Chaffee Heilman from Baby Braithwaite
Ashton Greene of H. Stockton
Mona Ariza from Hand in Pocket Boutique
Jessica Williams from Lake
