For most of us, garbage is something we have no desire in getting near. It is dirty, disgusting and worthless. The only thing it is good for is throwing out.
That is not the way American Ecology (ECOL) looks at garbage, however. For this highly successful enterprise, garbage is gold.
Specialising in the removal and either disposal or recycling of oil-refinery sludge, contaminated materials and radioactive protective clothing, this business is a long way from your run-of-the-mill business, according to an article in CNN Money.
But, as different as it may be, this business offers a service and makes money.
Established in 1952, this company has developed in an industry synonymous with red tape.
There are a plethora of rules and regulations that must be adhered to at all times and ECOL has managed to not only survive, but grow from the mountains of garbage it services.
Perhaps most significantly, ECOL survived the hazardous 1980s and 1990s when a number of "earth-friendly laws" were passed.
A number of new waste disposal firms offered fresh disposal methods that abided by these laws. The variety of methods was numerous, stretching to the disposal of waste into space.
However, due to its established 30 to 40 years of experience the company survived this period and has since moved from strength to strength.
ECOL now has bases in four locations across the country – Idaho, Washington, Texas and Nevada.
Arguably the most remarkable aspect of the entire operation however, is the company's ability to recycle.
In dealing with such dangerous materials, it would be expected that the garbage haul in its entirety was thrown away. This is not the case however, and the recycling aspect of the business, is relatively successful.
It is an area a number of companies are aiming to expand. Lynn Brown, spokesperson for Waste Management, said that the company aimed to triple their recycling capabilities by the year 2020.
Meanwhile, ECOL chief executive Steve Romano, said the company was always looking to expand and was currently looking a few new recycling opportunities.
He said: "We believe there is a substantial market for reclaimed oil -- and also for metals recycled from refineries."
The ECOL business model is an interesting one, surviving over a number of years through various bureaucratic and economic difficulties through its innovation and adaptation to modern-day needs and opportunities.
If nothing else, it's an example that you really can make something out of nothing.
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