Ten-store urban independent The Fresh Grocer joined Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter to commemorate the first week of the “Recycling Rewards” partner program between the city of Philadelphia, the Streets Department and RecycleBank. Recycling Rewards allows residents with city-provided recycling collection to earn points that can be redeemed through RecycleBank for groceries, gift cards, merchandise and entertainment at hundreds of participating local and national merchants.

The program will be rolled out monthly over six months based on sanitation service areas, with the entire city receiving service by July.

Philadelphia residents can earn hundreds of dollars worth of rewards for recycling each year, redeemable at many local businesses, including The Fresh Grocer, Rita’s Water Ice, Las Cazuelas, Reading Terminal Market, Second Street Pizza and London Grill. Major retailers and national brands such as Coca-Cola, Kraft, Seventh Generation, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Ruby Tuesday and Bed, Bath & Beyond are also participating. Philadelphians will also have the option of donating their Recycling Rewards to environmental initiatives at local schools through the RecycleBank Green Schools Program.

At The Fresh Grocer in particular, rewards include $5 off a $40 purchase, and $3 off a fresh fruit or vegetable tray.

“We’re delighted to be part of a local environmental program that changes behavior,” said Pat Burns, President and CEO of the Drexel Hill, Pa.-based Fresh Grocer. “We are dedicated to operating our stores with an ongoing commitment to the environment. Partnering with RecycleBank and rewarding our customers for recycling certainly aligns with our mission.”