Minnsights Blog

What happens to a plastic bottle after you put it in the recycling bin? There is plenty of speculation about where our plastics end up after the blue bin - being shipped overseas, ending up in the ocean or simply being thrown away as trash. While there can be some truth to these claims globally, it’s important to understand that recycling is largely a regional system.

Finding skilled workers is one of the toughest challenges facing our members today. The Business Education Network is an employer-led initiative of the Minnesota Chamber Foundation designed to address Minnesota's workforce shortages. Earlier this spring, Brainerd Lakes Chamber of Commerce hosted their annual Career Exploration Day. Their career expo is not your average career fair.

Coming to you as we are near the end of the 2026 legislative session. I want to give you an update regarding what is happening at the Capitol but also share a little personal news today.

When Waste Wise visited Bellmont Partners during the summer of 2025, they found an employer encouraging sustainable practices. Their environmental initiatives have even been recognized by the City of Edina’s Green Business Recognition Program. The Bellmont Partners office features well-labeled trash, recycling and organic bins throughout the space. They have reusable plates, cups and utensils in the kitchen to cut down on single-use items. All of these are best practices for reuse and recycling.

Coming to you as we are near the end of the 2026 legislative session. I want to give you an update regarding what is happening at the Capitol but also share a little personal news today.