It is estimated that 70% of a business’s landfill waste can be recycled. However, most companies will only recycle some of these materials. For every 100 tons of possibility, only about 30 tons will be recycled. The rest of the materials head to the overflowing landfills. Some materials, like paper and cardboard, will decompose in two to five months; others, such as plastic bottles, will take 450 years to decompose. Most Americans agree that we must do better. On a corporate level, leadership is needed to make that happen. It’s time for big and small companies to reassess and reenergize their recycling programs. Here’s how:
New perspective. Every organization, profit or non, must be fiscally responsible. Expenses must be within income, and wise practices should be implemented to sustain. Traditionally, recycling efforts were seen as an expense. We encourage you to view it as a new, attractive way to save significant dollars for your company. The cost of waste hauling has become relatively high, and when the majority of this can be diverted to a program where recycling profits can offset hauling costs – you save, and everyone wins.
Waste Assessment. Perspective on your possibilities is essential. Industry professionals can come into your organization, perform a complete Waste Assessment, and show how your organization can benefit from new recycling methods. Understand that this often can mean something other than significant changes in current practices or policies. Experienced consultants usually provide companies with simple techniques to increase participation or materials recovered significantly.
Collaborate: Successful recycling programs often involve partnerships with waste management companies, recyclers, and other stakeholders. Collaboration can help optimize waste collection, processing, and recycling efforts. You will be amazed at what you can accomplish with the right help; you are not alone!
Care about Compliance. Utilize your professional partnerships to ensure you remain compliant with relevant environmental regulations and standards. Experts can ensure you stay informed about waste management regulations and demonstrate your commitment to legal and ethical ecological business practices.
Involve Employees. We know that 85% of Americans are pro-recycling, and the expectation is that their employer will be of the same mindset. Successful recycling programs should work to educate, encourage, and engage employees to recycle both at home and at work. Many people will be enthusiastic about doing so. Consider using surveys and feedback mechanisms to help employees become invested in program success. Ask leaders, communicators, and mentors to champion your program and watch it transform organically.
Value Recycling. When recycling becomes a core part of your corporate identity, employees are more likely to embrace it as a shared responsibility. Embed sustainability practices into your culture and values to prompt action and promote long-term success.
Communicate. Today, excellent recycling programs are defined by commitment, action, and communication. Leaders should work with professionals to create an ideal, customized program and lead their team to make it happen. Programs like those offered by Midwest Fiber Recycling will provide you with Real-Time Recycling data via an online portal. You will have all the data on recycled material, money saved/earned, and even the impact these efforts have had on the environment. Share this with your employees, customers, shareholders, and the community.
Set Goals & Celebrate. It is a fact that companies that formally recognize internal successes have more success. This stems from the psychology of reward and benefit. Behavior that is rewarded and recognized is more likely to occur. Set obtainable goals and celebrate when these have been reached. And, once they have, set new goals, and celebrate every step of the way.
Commit to Improvement. Just as you have a dynamic company, your program should also set goals for quarterly analysis and annual refreshments. New technologies for waste hauling, segregation, and processing continue to emerge. As it does, there are new opportunities for your company to modify your program in a way that may offer significant benefits.
Consider focusing on these factors to breathe new life into your recycling program. Doing so may yield tremendous environmental benefits and contribute to overall cost savings, improved employee morale, and a positive public reputation. Remember that you are not alone. Industry professionals at Midwest Fiber Recycling stand by to offer the support needed for a successful program in the present and future. Contact us to learn more today!
