Bacardi Launches Glass Recycling Program in Puerto Rico to Cut Hospitality Waste

The family-owned spirits producer Bacardi has joined forces with recycling firm Reciclaje del Norte and the Municipality of Cataño to roll out a new glass recycling program in the area surrounding its iconic BACARDÍ rum distillery in Puerto Rico, according to its company statement.

The initiative, which began in May 2025, involves the weekly collection of used glass bottles from participating bars and restaurants in the Cataño Bay area. According to Bacardi, the recovered glass is crushed and repurposed to manufacture construction blocks, providing both an environmental and community benefit.

As of early August, Bacardi reports that more than 1.3 tons of glass have been collected under the scheme, helping to divert waste from landfills and raise public awareness about the importance of recycling in Puerto Rico.

Magaly Feliciano, Global Sustainability Director at Bacardi and based in Puerto Rico, emphasized the company’s commitment to social responsibility: “As a family-owned business, we believe strongly in doing the right thing by giving back to our local community and helping protect the environment in Cataño. We’re so proud of this project as it’s a perfect example of how we can work together to make a meaningful difference.”

Julio Alicea Vasallo, Mayor of Cataño, also praised the program, describing it as “an innovative effort that involves and includes our businesses in Cataño Bay in the construction of an economy where waste is not waste, but an opportunity for something more”, adding that each recycled bottle contributes to “building a stronger Cataño tomorrow.”

The glass recycling initiative forms part of Bacardi’s broader environmental strategy. According to Bacardi, other measures include switching its distillery’s fuel source from oil to gas to cut greenhouse gas emissions, reusing water for cooling stills—saving millions of gallons annually—and protecting Puerto Rico’s bat population. The distillery holds Wildlife Habitat Council (WHC) Certification, making it the only facility on the island with that recognition.

According to the International Alliance for Responsible Drinking and recent market analyses, sustainability has become a core focus for global spirits producers. Many leading brands are investing in closed-loop packaging systems, renewable energy at distilleries, and waste reduction partnerships with local governments. For island economies like Puerto Rico, glass recycling initiatives can significantly reduce the environmental footprint of the hospitality sector, while also supporting local construction industries through repurposed materials. Bacardi’s program in Cataño reflects a broader trend of spirits companies moving beyond carbon reduction targets to address circular economy goals and community engagement.

Source: BACARDI