3 Tips For Easier Recycling In The Workplace
If your business is looking for a way to go green, one easy way you can do that is to start recycling. 75% of waste we create is recyclable, but we only recycle around 30%. We can create less trash by just taking a few extra steps to ensure that we are recycling everything that we can. Here are some things you can to make things easier for your employees to recycle.
Encourage Employees To Wash Recyclables
While it may seem like washing out recyclables is more work, it can actually help encourage employees to keep recycling. That's because a big problem wish recycling, or any trash bin in the office, can be the smell. If employees are putting dirty food containers directly into the recycling bin, it's going to create an odor that smells horrible. They may not think to rinse off the item and throw it in the trash instead.
Separate The Trash And Recycling Containers
When the two bins are next to each other, it's easy to make the mistake of throwing away something that can be recycled. If the containers are on opposite sides of the room, it can make a big difference.
For example, place a paper-recycling bin directly next to the printer. Place a recycling bin for paper towels directly next to the sink in the bathroom. If you make recycling convenient, it will be easy to do out of habit.
Post A List of What Materials Can Be Recycled
Many people do not recycle out of ignorance. They do not realize that the plastic tray their frozen lunch came in can be recycled, and decide to toss it into the trash instead. You can solve this problem by keeping a sign posted near the recycling bins with what can and cannot be recycled.
You will want to check with the commercial trash service that picks up your trash and recycling, and verify which materials they are able to collect. They can be identified by a number on the material. Some common materials you may encounter in the workplace include:
- 1 – Soda can and food containers
- 2 – Milk jugs and plastic bags
- 3 – Food packaging, cling wrap, and peanut butter jars
- 4 – Grocery, bread, and frozen food bags
- 5 – Yogurt containers and straws
- 6 – Styrofoam food containers
- 7 – Metal food can liners
Follow these tips, and you will be on your way to effectively recycling in the office.
Share