Introduction
Commercial recycling is of particular importance because businesses often produce a vast amount of waste. Waste recycling plays a vital role in protecting the environment which is why setting up recycling in the workplace is so important. Office recycling not only helps a company operate more sustainably but it also helps save money in the long run.
Importance of recycling
Benefits of recycling are manifold, and this is especially so when it comes to commercial recycling. This is the process of turning trade and business waste into something new and re-usable. Some industries go as far as to create a recycling setup referred to as ‘closed-loop’ recycling because the materials can go a full circle without causing any damage to the environment. Recycling at whatever scale is beneficial to the planet which is beneficial to all humans. While individually it might not seem like much but every item that does not get recycled has an intensely negative impact on our environment.
Workplaces that do not have a proper waste management system end up wasting money and experience reduced efficiency. When commercial waste is not handle properly it can cause damage to our natural ecosystems, let hazardous waste enter the biosphere and be harmful to wildlife. Any company not practicing proper recycling these days, gains a bad image among the consumers of today.
An effective recycling program has many benefits for the society and the planet as a whole:
- It reduces the waste sent to landfills and incinerators
- Helps conserve energy while reducing air and water pollution
- Reduces greenhouse gas emissions and conserves natural resources
- Prevents pollution
- Economic benefits
How to set up recycling at the workplace
It is really not difficult for a company and even a small business to set up an effective waste disposal and recycling scheme. First create a green team to be responsible for setting up the waste and recycling system. This can either be on a roaster basis or voluntary. They can follow the general recycling steps of:
- Waste disposal
- Collection and transportation
- Sorting
- Cleaning and treatment
- Recycling process
- Redistribution
Separating waste – This is a very important step to ensure that recycling at work happens effectively. Recycling bins should be placed around the work place with the waste bins clearly marked for the different types of waste. This helps with ensuring that recyclable and non-recyclable waste are disposed of separately. Having easily accessible bins around will help make the process more convenient for everyone. It will ensure that general waste is always placed in the relevant bin and not left lying around.
Spread the message – It is important that everyone at the work place is kept informed and educated on office waste disposal policies. The communications should promote recycling within the workplace so that all employees are involved. This can also include clients, customers and visitors to your office premises.
Enforce proper rules – Having clear rules and guidelines makes it easier for everyone as there can be no misunderstandings regarding the dos and don’ts.
Be mindful of purchase – As a company it is important to be mindful of purchases made with prominence given to buying recycled materials which actually not only benefits the environment but also helps you save money.
Enlisting professional help – Not all workplaces will have recycling facilities in house and so hiring an affordable waste clearance company will help. They will ensure that waste collection happens properly and that the waste is disposed of ethically and within government regulations. You will also receive a waste transfer note, so you have an audit trail, if or when necessary.
Conclusion
The Environmental Protection Act 1990 imposes a duty of care on your business when it comes to disposing of your commercial waste. Recycling is also an important element, and you have to comply with the regulations of the Act. The steps listed here will help you set up an effective recycling process which will be beneficial your company, society and the planet.
