Our story of environmental impact
From a small community initiative to a leading force in sustainable waste management, driven by passionate volunteers who believe in a greener future.
Years serving our community.
Active volunteers
Recycled material
This is how it all began
A journey marked by environmental passion, community spirit, and the conviction that small actions can create big change
The spark of an idea
By august 2022, we had shifted gears, focusing on education, management, and industrial programs to build a solid foundation for sustainability.
From August 2022 to December 2023, the centre effectively managed an astounding 93,000 pounds of solid waste, wich translates to over 42,000 kilograms in just 17 months. 71 percent of this waste is glass, while cardboard, plastic, aliminium cans and tetrapak make up the remaining 29 percent.
Growing the movement
What began as weekend collection days in Sarah’s garage soon outgrew its modest beginnings. The news spread through social media, community boards, and traditional word of mouth. Local businesses started donating spaces, and the municipal council took notice.
By the end of our first year, we successfully diverted 50,000 pounds of materials from landfills. The community’s response was overwhelming: people were eager for a real way to create environmental impact.
Building our home
Thanks to a combination of grants, community fundraising, and a generous land donation from the Henderson family, we began the construction of our permanent headquarters. The 15,000-square-foot center was designed with a sustainable approach: solar panels, a rainwater collection system, and energy-efficient sorting equipment.
Our grand opening brought together more than 1,000 community members. Seeing families, students, and seniors working side by side to create something meaningful… that was when we realized we hadn’t just built a recycling center. We had built a community.
Ricky Recycle is Born, Our Mascot
Ricky arrives to remind us that every small gesture counts when it comes to caring for our beautiful Bocas del Toro archipelago. His mission is to inspire children, youth, and adults to adopt responsible habits, reduce waste, and give new life to recyclable materials.
With a contagious smile and lots of positive energy, Ricky Recycle teaches us that recycling is not only important, it can also be fun! Join us in our upcoming community activities and learn with Ricky how together we can build a cleaner and more sustainable future for everyone.
The DNA of our work
Our essence, what drives us, and the hallmark that makes us unique
Mission
Lead in the Bocas del Toro Archipelago with a comprehensive solid waste management model based on circular economy and zero-waste policy, fostering environmental resilience, social development, and job creation, while reducing the impact of pollution on health and the environment.
Vision
To be the principal strategic ally of the Bocas del Toro Archipelago in the sustainable management of solid waste, establishing ourselves as a regional benchmark in circular economy, climate change mitigation, greenhouse gas inventory, and carbon footprint reduction, moving towards an environmentally regenerative model.
Institutional Values
- Integrity
- Environmental responsibility
- Innovation
- Community engagement
- Transparency
- Education and Awareness
Operational Principles
- Circular Economy
- Zero Waste
- Clean Production
- 5R
- Agenda 2030
- Climate Action and GHG Measurement
Be part of our volunteer family
Whether you have two hours a week or two days a month, there is a place for you in our mission to build a more sustainable future.
Testimonios de la comunidad
Real stories from those who make our mission possible
Having a recycling center in Bocas is essential for our community and for protecting the environment on our beloved island. Thanks to it, we have significantly reduced the amount of waste that ends up in the landfill, ensuring it is managed properly and responsibly. It is crucial that we continue to support and strengthen these kinds of initiatives, which benefit everyone.
Cintia Guich
Mundo sin Residuos
The amount of waste we send to the landfill is astonishing, which is why we’re extremely happy to support the initiatives of Bocas Recycle Center.
Msc. Y Holly Hummel
Community Coordinator and Instructor
School for Field Studies
Isla Colón, Bocas del Toro
During the 2024 and 2025 school years, our students participated in a hands-on training process with the local recycling center, where they learned firsthand about the complete recycling cycle: from collection to material transformation.
Through guided visits, collection and sorting sessions at the school center, students learned to correctly identify and separate plastic, paper, cardboard, glass, and metals, understanding the importance of each stage of the process.
Yimena Samudio
Teacher
Bilingual Republic of Nicaragua School
Bocas Recycle Center
Creating a sustainable future through community-driven recycling initiatives and environmental education.
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Bocas Recycle Center by Unidos por Boca S.A. All rights reserved 2025. Developed by It's Angee.