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An increasing number of organisations are recognising the environmental and business benefits of recycling their waste.
Environmental benefits - recycling paper helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions that can contribute to climate change. It takes 70% less energy and water to recycle paper than to create new paper from trees. Manufacturing with recovered paper cuts down on pollution that contributes to smog (and ill health). Best of all, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, recycling one ton of paper saves 17 trees!
Business reputation - you can attract new customers, enhance your chances of winning contracts and improve customer loyalty by demonstrating your environmental responsibility through recycling efforts.
Reducing waste costs - managing and handling waste is costly and reducing the amount of waste you send directly to landfill can brings large savings on landfill tax.
Meeting legal obligations - businesses in some industries have a legal responsibility for disposal of specific products; ensuring compliance through recycling schemes means avoiding penalties, fines or worse.
Develop a ‘Green Office Policy’
Develop a green office policy that champions the three Rs – reduce, reuse and recycle... but best of all PREVENT!
Prevent - Don't use the paper in the first place! Do you need paper records, or can you reduce your printing and storage space (and perhaps even improve your office security) by storing information digitally or emailing it to colleagues? You could also consider removing all paper cups from the drinks dispenser and either ask staff to bring their own mug from home, or provide reusable company mugs.
Reduce - Focus on reducing paper consumption, for example by setting all printers to default double-sided printing.
Reuse - Can you reuse paper that has been used as note paper, or for packaging?
Recycle - To maximise on all office recycling opportunities, integrate recycling into all departments – from purchasing (purchase only recycled paper) to human resources (employees should be mindful of paper consumption) to materials management (paper should be securely disposed of).
Have clearly labelled bins throughout your premises and partner with a professional waste management provider that specialises in recycling.
Share your Results
Some waste management companies provide environmental information, certificates and awards that show how the impact of your efforts on the environment.
Share the results of recycling efforts in your marketing and with employees to drive more business and keep your team engaged. You could consider running a ‘Eco Office Awareness Day’ focusing on the financial and environmental benefits of recycling.
Share your tips on social media – there are lots of positive messages you can convey that will strengthen your brand. See if you can work with your waste management provider on joint campaigns to give authenticity and extend your reach.