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Big Man on Planet Competition Returns

TRC, HARDI members team up to collect mercury-containing thermostats

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — Thermostat Recycling Corp. (TRC), in conjunction with Heating, Air-conditioning & Refrigeration Distributors International (HARDI), opened its fifth annual Big Man on Planet (BMOP) competition May 1. BMOP will run through Oct. 31, and all HARDI wholesaler members are eligible to participate.

To accommodate distributors of all sizes, three winning wholesalers will be chosen based on the most mercury recycled, highest recycling average, and most participation (for distributors with more than 10 locations). Additionally, a $500 store incentive will be awarded to the top three branch locations that recycle the most. Winners will be recognized at HARDI’s annual conference, Dec. 3-6 in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

“Last year’s participation in the competition increased by 71 percent and diverted 432 pounds of mercury from solid waste,” said Ryan Kiscaden, executive director, TRC. “The HVAC wholesale channel continues to be our strongest ally, and promotions, such as BMOP, continue to affect the collections for our program.”

“TRC provides this turnkey program for HARDI wholesalers to do their part in preventing harmful mercury from leeching into our ecosystems,” said Talbot Gee, CEO, HARDI. “Considering how easy it is to participate, there’s really no reason why any HARDI distributors shouldn’t be taking advantage of some friendly competition, opportunities for prizes, and making the environment cleaner and safer.”

Past winners include Auer Steel and Heating Supply Co., Johnson Supply, US Air Conditioning Distributors, and Johnstone Supply in 2015; Corken Steel Products, Crescent Parts & Equipment, and Johnstone Supply in 2014; and Johnstone Supply in 2013 and 2012.

HARDI distributors may sign up to compete in BMOP at www.thermostat-recycle.org/BMOP.

For distributors not currently participating in TRC’s collection program, more information is available at www.thermostat-recycle.org or by calling 888-266-0550.

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