1. Have I engaged my employees and janitorial staff?
   Your employees can be one of the biggest drivers for your program’s success – if you educate and engage with them properly. Prepare employees to participate in your program with a training session and resource materials, and clearly communicate your goals. This is especially critical for your custodial/janitorial staff, who can unwittingly undermine your efforts by collecting trash improperly. Consider creating a “green team” comprised of at least one employee from each of your locations that can help advocate for your program and drive participation.
2. Did I bite off more than I can chew?
   In the average workplace, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that at least 80 percent of solid waste is actually recyclable. But while many items can be recycled, it’s best to begin with a program that’s simple and manageable – and expand it over time as you achieve your goals. Tackling too much at once can feel overwhelming and decrease participation. Paper products, cardboard and beverage containers are a great place to start and can have a major impact. Most employees go through 3 bottled or canned beverages each day, and the average US workplace generates at least a pound of daily paper waste!*
3. Have I selected the right bins?
   When choosing a commercial recycling bin, consider an option that collects and sorts all types of recycling, plus trash, in one container. Individual containers can get separated, which causes people to use the wrong bin. You should also think about bin features that can grow with your program – and allow you to easily switch or add labels as needed. Commercial Zone has combination bins that are both stylish and durable to meet varied recycling needs that can be personalized to match your company’s brand. And if you don’t find what you need, we can customize a recycling system that meets your unique goals.
4. Do I have measurable goals – and have I communicated them?
   An effective recycling program starts with having clear, measurable goals that your employees know and understand. Your program goals may be focused on employee or customer awareness and participation, decreased contamination rates, lower waste costs or a combination of all these. Consider adding program results as an agenda item at quarterly employee meetings to drive continued engagement, or offer employee or customer incentives to increase participation.
5. Have I reviewed EPA and local regulations?
   It’s important to brush up on EPA standards and any state and local regulations that may impact your recycling program, especially when it comes to electronics and hazardous waste recycling. Earth 911 also offers a wealth of recycling best practices, standards and advice.
   

Looking to enhance or evaluate your recycling container options? Contact us today to find an option that’s right for you.

Source: Inc.com