How to Recycle in the Workplace | 10 Office Recycling Tips

Implementing a robust plan for recycling in your workplace, and engaging with employees, is one of the most simple and effective ways for businesses 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 10 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 to Promote Recycling in the Workplace?

In order for your recycling efforts to be as fruitful as possible you must secure buy-in from your fellow employees. This is achieved through the effective promotion of recycling as a must-follow discipline. There are a number of ways you can promote recycling best practices in the workplace.

Lead by Example

Leadership commitment to recycling initiatives sets a strong precedent for employees. When management actively participates in and prioritises recycling, it emphasises the organisation's dedication to sustainability and motivates employees to follow suit.

Educate and Train Employees

Regular training sessions, through courses such as the IEMA Sustainability Skills for the Workforce, inform employees about recyclable materials, proper sorting techniques and how to be more sustainable in their role. Educational materials, such as posters and digital reminders, reinforce correct recycling practices.

Appoint Recycling Champions

Designate enthusiastic employees as recycling ambassadors. These individuals can lead initiatives, address concerns, and inspire colleagues, creating a supportive environment for sustainable practices.

Communicate Progress and Achievements

Regularly share updates on recycling milestones and goals achieved. Celebrating successes keeps employees informed and motivated, reinforcing the positive impact of their efforts.

How Can You Encourage Employees to Recycle More?

Actively encouraging employees to recycle and facilitating any feedback is crucial to a successful recycling plan in the workplace.

Provide Convenient Recycling Facilities

Accessibility is crucial. Install clearly labelled recycling bins in strategic locations such as:

• Break rooms
• Near printers
• Common areas
• Entry and hallways

Consistent bin placement across the workplace minimises confusion and encourages proper waste disposal.

Solicit Employee Feedback

Create opportunities for employees to provide input on recycling initiatives, such as employee forums and town halls. Addressing their suggestions and concerns creates a sense of ownership and continuous improvement in recycling efforts.

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.