10 Simple Tips for a Workplace Recycling Plan

Implementing a robust plan for recycling in your workplace is one of the most simple and effective ways for your organisation to become environmentally conscious and sustainable. 

However, finding out where to start and finding the right sources of information can be difficult. We have helped many organisations implement environmental initiatives from massive scale training programs down to day-to-day operations, like recycling. There are a number of easy steps you take to set off on the right foot.

Our Top Tips for a Workplace Recycling Plan

There are a few key points you can focus on when looking at how best to optimise your workplace recycling plan.

Do Your Research

Start by learning about what can and cannot be recycled locally. You may presume it's obvious or easy to guess - think again. Different places have different recycling guidelines, so knowing what is accepted and what isn't is essential. 

This information is usually on your local government or recycling program's website. Not only do you face fines from your local councils if you consistently incorrectly recycle, but you are also responsible for polluting recycling sites.

Reduce and Reuse

Before recycling, reduce waste by buying minimal packaging (especially plastic) products and reusing items whenever possible. Save delivery boxes and reuse for storage or sending items. 

Encourage employees to buy reusable water bottles and cut down on single use items. If you have any refreshments areas on site, ensure they are selling products that are biodegradable.

Set Up a Recycling Station

Create a designated area in your workplace for recycling. Clearly labelled recycling bin or bins for different materials like paper, plastic, glass, and aluminium can make recycling more accessible for employees.

Check for Local Recycling Programs

Some materials, like electronics, batteries, and hazardous waste, may not be accepted in your local recycling program. Find local collection centres or special collection events for these items.

Composting

To reduce waste further, consider starting a compost pile or using a composting service for organic waste. This reduces the amount of food and yard waste in landfills.

Spread the Word

Encourage your colleagues to recycle and educate them about the importance of responsible waste management. Share information on social media, official communication channels and participate in recycling awareness events.

Reduce Contamination

Contamination is a significant issue in recycling. Be sure to keep non-recyclable items out of the recycling bin. Contaminants can disrupt the recycling process and lead to recyclable materials being sent to landfills. Wash any items with food on them before putting them in the appropriate recycling bin.

Stay Informed

Stay updated on recycling policies and developments in your organisation and surrounding areas. Participate in local meetings or initiatives related to recycling to have a voice in shaping recycling programs.

Reduce Single-Use Plastics

Reduce your use of single-use plastics, which are often not easily recyclable and can significantly impact the environment. Opt for reusable alternatives.

Donate or Repurpose

Before discarding items, consider donating them to charities or finding creative ways to repurpose them. This extends the life of products and reduces waste.

How Does Recycling Help the Environment?

When done correctly, recycling conserves resources, reduces pollution, and contributes to a healthier and more balanced ecosystem. However, it's important to note that successful recycling requires the active participation and commitment of all employees and departments to maximise its positive environmental impact.

Just in case you weren't sure how effective recycling directly helps or benefits the environment; we have collated just a few examples of how correct recycling practices assist our fight against climate change and help the environment. 

• Conservation of Resources: Recycling reduces the need for extracting, refining, and processing raw materials from the Earth. This conserves valuable natural resources such as timber, minerals, and fossil fuels. For example, recycling aluminium cans saves energy and resources compared to producing new cans from bauxite ore.
• Reduced Landfill Waste: Proper recycling reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. Landfills can release harmful greenhouse gases, leachate, and toxins into the environment. By diverting materials from landfills, recycling helps mitigate these negative effects.
• Lower Greenhouse Gas Emissions: When you recycle materials like paper, glass, and plastics, it often results in fewer emissions of greenhouse gases. For example, recycling paper instead of making it from virgin wood pulp can significantly reduce carbon dioxide emissions.
• Preservation of Biodiversity: Mining and logging for raw materials can lead to habitat destruction and ecosystem disruption. By recycling, we can help protect natural habitats and preserve biodiversity.
• Economic Growth: Recycling can create jobs and stimulate local economies. It promotes the development of recycling facilities, collection systems, and technologies, which can contribute to economic growth and stability.

Recycling is a simple but essential step in addressing environmental concerns. The key is to make it a habit and continually seek ways to reduce waste and minimise our impact on the planet.

Following on from a recycling program, we recommend organisations investigate training their employees on the impact of their roles on the environment and how they can be more sustainable. The IEMA Sustainability Skills for the Workforce course is the perfect introduction to the environment and sustainability for all employees. The course below can be delivered across an organisation via our innovative, industry-leading online course.