The Environmental Benefits of Recyclable Utility Materials

For more than a century, cast iron has set the standard for strength, durability, and longevity in underground utility systems. It remains the material of choice for critical access points like valve boxes, curb boxes, and meter lids—especially in high-traffic and heavy-load environments.

Building a Stronger Future with Sustainable Utility Access Solutions

As infrastructure needs evolve, so does the responsibility to build smarter and more sustainably. At Bingham & Taylor, we’re helping reshape the utility landscape by delivering recyclable, durable materials that reduce environmental impact—without compromising performance.

A Legacy of Environmental Responsibility

Founded in 1849, Bingham & Taylor is one of the oldest and most respected manufacturers in the utility access industry. We’re proud to be a woman-owned company, and the original inventor of the Buffalo-style utility box, now an international standard.

From the beginning, we’ve believed that better infrastructure should also mean a better world. That’s why our product designs prioritize durability, recyclability, and sustainable sourcing.

Why Recyclable Utility Materials Matter

Choosing recyclable materials in underground utility access products helps:

• Reduce landfill waste

• Lower emissions from manufacturing and transportation

• Preserve natural resources

• Extend product life cycles

These environmental benefits are especially meaningful in sectors like water and gas, where infrastructure is both widespread and long-lasting.

What We Offer: Recyclable and Sustainable Solutions

♻️ Bison™ ABS Plastic

• Thick-walled, impact-resistant plastic engineered for performance

• Lightweight alternative to traditional cast iron, reducing transportation emissions

• Fully recyclable and built for reuse at end of life

• Used in our exclusive Bison Valve and Curb Boxes, these products cut weight by up to 94 lbs, easing strain on installers and reducing jobsite injury risk

♻️ Bison CIP (Cast Iron + Plastic)

• Combines the strength of cast iron with the light weight of Bison™ plastic

• Ideal for utilities seeking cost savings, easier installation, and reduced emissions

• Both the cast iron (made from recycled scrap) and plastic components are recyclable

♻️ Cast Iron

• Long known for its strength, cast iron can be recycled repeatedly without losing structural integrity.

• Bingham & Taylor cast iron products are made with a high percentage of recycled scrap metal, significantly reducing the need for virgin raw materials.

• Our commitment to circular manufacturing supports sustainability at both the start and end of a product’s life.

• Designed to meet extreme performance standards, our cast iron meter boxes and lids are built to last—reducing waste, energy use, and environmental costs over time.

Sustainability Through Strength and Longevity

Durability is a key component of sustainability. Bingham & Taylor products are engineered for long-term use, meaning fewer replacements, less waste, and reduced lifecycle costs.

Whether it’s a cast iron valve box or a composite meter lid, our products are designed to endure:

• Heavy traffic

• Harsh weather

• Decades of service

Made in America. Built for the Planet.

All Bingham & Taylor products are 100% manufactured in the U.S., complying with:

• American Iron and Steel (AIS) Act

• Build America, Buy America (BABA) Act

Domestic production doesn’t just support local jobs—it dramatically reduces emissions compared to overseas manufacturing and long-haul transport. And because we control our entire production process, we’re able to deliver consistent quality with minimal environmental impact.

Innovation and Continuous Improvement

We don’t just meet today’s standards—we invest in the technologies that will shape tomorrow. Our in-house advanced metallurgy lab and team of experienced engineers allow us to:

• Test and refine sustainable material blends

• Evaluate long-term product performance

• Support municipalities with smarter, greener solutions

Final Thought: Choosing Sustainability Without Sacrificing Performance

At Bingham & Taylor, we’re proud to show that recyclable utility materials can meet the highest standards of performance and durability. Every product we make supports a cleaner environment, stronger communities, and a more sustainable future.

Learn More About Our Commitment to Sustainability

At Bingham & Taylor, sustainability isn’t just a value—it’s a promise we deliver on every day through smart design, responsible sourcing, and American manufacturing.

🔗 Explore our Sustainability Page to see how we’re reducing environmental impact across our operations.

📄 Download our Sustainability Report for a deeper look at our goals, progress, and long-term vision.

Together, we can build infrastructure that protects what matters—for today and generations to come.