Tips For Encouraging Participation In An Office Recycling Program

A recent national survey revealed that nearly 9 out of 10 people would recycle more if it were easier. It is no wonder that an estimated 60% of the garbage that we are still throwing away could be recycled instead. Making these programs more effective is a top priority in order to enjoy all the benefits that recycling programs offer us, the economy and our environment.

Waste Wise Products has identified two major areas where we can encourage more participation. First, the right bins for recycling make the entire process easier and will help foster a sense of involvement in order to increase employee participation. In addition to the right recycling containers, the proper education on why these programs are so important and they benefits they carry convinces many people to put forth the extra effort to participate. Let’s take a look at what makes the right type of bins for recycling and how to educate employees.

Recycling Containers That Make A Difference

Making participation easier begins with a set of recycling containers. Garbage has to be properly sorted and then disposed of in multi-stream programs, but these parts often cause confusion and put people off from doing their part. The right recycling containers will solve this problem.

The best way to make sense of multi-stream programs is to use multi-purpose recycling containers. 90 gallon all-in-one units come with multiple compartments that are clearly marked with the different types of garbage and can be placed in a cafeteria or other large common area. Within each individual office, desk sized dual compartment recycling containers can help separate trash, or rider bins for recycling can be clipped onto a typical waste basket to instantly add another compartment.

Recycling containers should also be placed close to where garbage is generated. Recycling containers for handling paper should be placed near office printers, copiers, and fax machines. Bins for recycling glass and cans should be in break rooms, the cafeteria, and in each hallway. In addition, bins for recycling cardboard should be placed in shipping and receiving areas.

Educating Employees

Even with convenient, easy to use bins for recycling, some employees will still hesitate to participate. At this point, a simple education program can do wonders. Have a companywide email go out every week and include one fact about how recycling will save money, energy, and our natural resources. Use facts like for every 1 ton of plastic that is recycled we save the equivalent of 2 people’s energy use for 1 year, the amount of water used by 1 person in 2 month’s time, and almost 2000 pounds of oil. Consider placing placards or notes on office boards that describe how many jobs are created from the processing and re-use of recycled materials.

In order to encourage participation in the office program, make sure your business has the right set of recycling containers while educating employees on the benefits of the program.