5 ways to increase paper recycling in offices

Literally tons of paper is thrown out every day by the businesses of America and the UK. While many businesses have good intentions, implementing a system that works isn’t always easy. You can improve your recycling efforts with some determination and planning. Here are five ways to increase paper and ink cartridge recycling in offices:

Educate: Habits are hard to break and that is no different for your employees. You must first educate them on the importance of recycling paper and then continuously remind them of it. You cannot expect to just make a general announcement and have it all fall into place. That isn’t going to happen.

Initiate: Start by having a plan and being the first one to start using it. Clearly label recycling bins and begin placing them in the office. Start with your own office and start the ball rolling. Keep a list of reminders clearly posted so your employees are reminded of the recycling effort. It won’t catch on right away, but getting started is the first step. Get the bins out there and noticed. It’s all a matter of changing habits.

Delegate: You may want to start with your maintenance crew in your recycling effort. They are the one’s who will be ultimately responsible for picking up the waste and recycling baskets. Your efforts can start there until your entire crew catches on to the idea. Have your maintenance crew do as much separating and sorting as possible without making it a full time job in itself. You may want to contact your hauling company. Often they will give in house instructions on recycling to your maintenance crew.

Regulate: Give and receive feedback on the recycling program. Make spot checks occasionally and offer constructive ways your employees can remember to recycle. Keep selling the recycling idea in memos, newsletters, emails, and whatever else you can think of to keep the idea of recycling a constant one. Appoint recycling managers to help you keep the incentive going. Changing habits takes time, and cooperation.

Celebrate: Offer your employees some incentive for their recycling efforts. This doesn’t have to be anything huge, even recognition would be nice. Let employees know you appreciate and are willing to acknowledge their efforts in recycling. You could organize some small contests. People love contests, and if it helps ingrain the thought and habit of recycling, why not utilize it. Make it a team effort and reward those who participate in the effort.