An effective recycling system is one that is easy to use and does not result in waste ending up in recycling bins and vice versa. If recyclables end up in general waste, your business will not get the full benefits of recycling. Bulky materials such as cardboard and film plastics can quickly fill up general waste bins, and waste bins are generally more expensive to have collected than recycling bins or bales.
Key Components of an Effective Recycling System
- Clearly label both the recycling and waste bins. Consider using colour coding and/or pictures to indicate each bin's purpose. This can be extremely important in a workplace where English is not everyone's first language. Sustainability Victoria's image library has downloadable signs suitable for the workplace.
- Always place general waste bins next to recycling bins to overcome the problem of people throwing waste in the recycling bin because there is no general waste bin handy.
- Involve staff and employees in the design and implementation of the recycling system.
- Periodically reinforce with staff, employees, contractors and cleaners the purpose of bins and what can be recycled.
- Regularly monitor the recycling system. Keep monthly records of quantities of waste and recyclables collected, as well as levels of contamination (i.e. waste in the recycling and vice versa), and report the results via a chart in the staff room, so that managers and staff can see their progress.
Top | Last updated 13/08/2007
