Business Details
29 Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Comprehensive Recycling Solutions
First Star Recycling has been a leader in sustainable recycling practices since our founding in 1997. Originally established as Firstar Fiber, Inc., we pioneered Nebraska's first mechanical sorting process and have grown to become the state's largest material recovery facility. Our comprehensive services cater to both residential and commercial clients across Nebraska and Iowa, offering innovative solutions like single-stream recycling, zero-waste programs, and the nationally recognized Hefty ReNew orange bag initiative. With over 110 employees and operations in Omaha, Lincoln, and Grand Island, we process nearly 100,000 tons of recyclables annually while prioritizing community education and environmental stewardship. Our team of industry experts specializes in creating customized waste management plans that reduce landfill waste, generate revenue through material brokerage, and promote sustainable business practices.Through strategic partnerships with organizations like Dow and the Alliance to End Plastic Waste, we continue to develop cutting-edge recycling technologies, including our 2023 Plastics Recovery Facility that transforms hard-to-recycle plastics into construction materials. Our commitment to operational excellence is demonstrated through our 25+ years of service, proven track record with municipal contracts, and ongoing efforts to expand into rural communities while maintaining the highest standards of resource management.
Services
Residential Recycling
Commercial Recycling
Zero-Waste Programs
Material Brokerage
Orange Bag Program
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- We've provided specialized recycling services since 1997 with Nebraska's first mechanical sorting facility
- Our Hefty ReNew orange bag program pioneered hard-to-recycle plastics recovery nationwide
- Custom waste management audits identify unique organizational needs and cost-saving opportunities
- We process 100,000+ tons of recyclables annually for municipalities and businesses
- Zero-waste programs combine environmental responsibility with measurable cost savings
What people say
Great partner
Saving money
Customers love
Environmentally friendly
Successful implementation
Services
Residential Recycling
Our single-stream residential recycling program simplifies waste management for homeowners in Omaha, Lincoln, and surrounding areas. Using advanced sorting technology, residents can combine all recyclables in one bin without pre-sorting. The program includes specialized collection for hard-to-recycle plastics through our orange bag initiative, which transforms materials into construction resources. We provide comprehensive guidance on accepted items and coordinate with local haulers to ensure convenient recycling access for all households.
Commercial Recycling
Customized recycling solutions help businesses optimize waste management efficiency while reducing operational costs. Our experts conduct organizational audits to identify recycling opportunities and develop tailored implementation plans. Services include employee training programs, specialized waste stream management for manufacturers, and scalable solutions for retail operations. We partner with businesses to create sustainable practices that improve environmental impact while maintaining operational efficiency through our 25+ years of industry expertise.
Zero-Waste Programs
Our zero-waste initiatives help businesses achieve environmental goals while realizing cost savings. The program combines waste reduction strategies with revenue-generating opportunities through material brokerage. We implement comprehensive recycling systems that minimize landfill use and track measurable environmental benefits. Services include carbon footprint analysis, waste diversion planning, and ongoing program optimization. Our solutions help businesses demonstrate environmental responsibility while improving operational efficiency and community relations.
Material Brokerage
Our material brokerage service connects businesses with recycling markets to maximize returns on recyclable materials. We facilitate direct sales of pre-sorted materials to manufacturing facilities, creating revenue streams from waste products. The program handles paper, cardboard, plastics, and specialty materials, with expertise in negotiating optimal pricing. We manage the entire process from material assessment to transportation coordination, ensuring businesses receive maximum value while maintaining compliance with environmental regulations.
Orange Bag Program
The Hefty ReNew orange bag program provides innovative recycling for hard-to-process plastics. Residents and businesses collect materials like plastic bags, foam packaging, and food wrappers in designated orange bags for specialized processing. Our facility converts these plastics into construction materials through advanced transformation technology. The program includes educational resources on acceptable items and drop-off locations. As the first facility to implement this solution, we continue expanding access to make plastic recycling more accessible across Nebraska communities.
People
Dale Gubbels
Founder
Dale Gubbels founded First Star Recycling in 1997 as Firstar Fiber, Inc., establishing Nebraska's first mechanical sorting facility. His vision for sustainable resource management laid the foundation for the company's growth into a regional leader. With decades of industry experience, he pioneered innovative recycling solutions that continue to shape the company's direction.
Patrick Leahy
CEO
Patrick Leahy joined First Star Recycling in late 2022, bringing fresh perspective to the company's mission. His leadership drove the successful opening of the Plastics Recovery Facility in 2023. With extensive experience in sustainable business operations, he focuses on expanding rural services and developing new recycling technologies to enhance the company's environmental impact.
Questions
What areas do you serve?
We provide recycling services throughout Nebraska and Iowa, including Omaha, Lincoln, Grand Island, and surrounding communities.
How do I start a commercial recycling program?
Contact us for a free waste audit and customized implementation plan tailored to your business's specific needs and operational requirements.
What materials can I recycle at home?
Our single-stream program accepts paper, cardboard, plastics #1-7, aluminum, and steel cans. Use orange bags for hard-to-recycle plastics.
Can businesses earn money from recyclables?
Yes, our mill-direct brokerage program pays businesses for large volumes of pre-sorted recyclable materials through established market partnerships.
What is the orange bag program?
This innovative program recycles hard-to-process plastics like bags and foam packaging, converting them into construction materials through specialized processing.