Recycling has caused quite a stir this last decade and has quickly evolved from a ‘good idea’ to a regulatory requirement and Brand expectation. While the issue of "waste and recycling" may not seem exciting, it’s important and starts from the top. With some small changes the results can be very rewarding - certainly from a business cost and environmental perspective.
As recycling continues to develop, so does the technology. Facility managers need to keep improving their disposal systems and implement new innovation to achieve the most efficient and cost-effective waste management solution possible. With that in mind, Easi Recycling has put together our five top tips to help facility managers implement a simple but effective waste and recycling programme, that benefits your bottom line, brand credibility and the planet too.
Separating dry mixed recyclable waste can be a quick win. These materials need to be separated properly at source, ideally using clearly signed bins for mixed recycling and for large organisations spread over a large site, preferably yellow coloured bags for easy identification, this ensures they are disposed of in the correct skip or bin and collected for recycling.
Food waste, depending on volume should be separated at source too. This prevents cross-contamination of recyclables, if you have an organic collection service, green sealable bags or bio-degradable bags are ideal. If food is not collected separately then it should go into the General Waste bin.
General waste is normally collected in red or black bags, this should be kept to a minimum as it’s often destined for landfill.
A common mistake that we see in large buildings such as offices, is that many 'under desk' or 'department' bins are used with no segregation of waste at source.
Use images and colours, instead of just text. What’s more, one high-impact graphics Waste stream labels are vital for success in highly populated areas. In fact, a recent study carried out in a University saw the amount of waste that was diverted from landfill to recycling increase by 163% when they used clear signage. A school reported a large increase of 71% in the waste they diverted from landfill when they used colour coding and graphics for segregation at source.
To learn more about our Multi Bin Waste Cabinet download the product PDF here.
It’s a good idea for managers to keep records from the start of their facilities management waste and recycling programme - such as how much waste the business disposes of, the types of waste streams that are recycled and the diversion rate from the landfill. By setting targets, making your recycling goals clear to employees and regularly reviewing them will help produce great results for your business.
We know your time is precious and we now offer on-line mini waste audits, these can be done by phone, smart phone for video walk round.
All our team have over 10 years of experience in the waste and recycling industry and would to love to share some ideas, Contact us today on 0800 342 3177 or click below to book an appointment.
15 minute Free no obligation mini online waste survey
at a time to suit you.