FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Raleigh, NC — March 5, 2026 — SleeveCycle, a new nonprofit initiative dedicated to reducing plastic waste generated by the trading card hobby, has officially launched with a mission to promote reuse, recycling, and environmental education within the collecting community.

The trading card hobby relies heavily on plastic supplies designed to protect collectibles, including penny sleeves, top loaders, semi-rigid holders, and packaging materials. Many of these items are not accepted in curbside recycling programs, leaving collectors with few responsible disposal options.

SleeveCycle was created to address this challenge by providing collectors with a pathway to send unused hobby materials so they can be reused whenever possible and responsibly recycled when reuse is no longer viable.

“SleeveCycle is about helping the hobby grow responsibly,” said Chris Battaglino, founder of SleeveCycle. “Collectors use plastic supplies to protect their cards, but many of those materials eventually go unused or discarded. Our goal is to create a program that keeps those materials in circulation longer and prevents unnecessary waste.”

The organization encourages collectors to send unused hobby supplies such as sleeves, top loaders, team bags, and packaging materials. Items that remain usable may be redistributed to collectors and community programs, while materials that cannot be reused are directed toward responsible recycling pathways whenever possible.

SleeveCycle also aims to raise awareness within the hobby about sustainable practices and encourage collaboration between collectors, hobby shops, and industry manufacturers.

“SleeveCycle is a community-driven effort,” Battaglino added. “If collectors, businesses, and manufacturers work together, we can significantly reduce the environmental footprint of the hobby.”

The organization is also inviting hobby-related companies to become Charter Members, helping establish the infrastructure needed to collect and process hobby plastics and support future recycling initiatives.

SleeveCycle has applied for recognition as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization with the Internal Revenue Service.

Collectors and companies interested in supporting the initiative can learn more at: www.sleevecycle.org

About SleeveCycle

SleeveCycle is a nonprofit initiative focused on reducing plastic waste generated by the trading card hobby through reuse, recycling, and environmental education. By collecting unused hobby supplies and promoting responsible materials management, SleeveCycle aims to help build a more sustainable future for collectors and the hobby community.

Media Contact

Chris Battaglino

Founder, SleeveCycle

Email: hello@sleevecycle.org

Website: www.sleevecycle.org