Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Deconstructing the Mantra

Part Three: RECYCLE [Read Part 1: Reduce | Read Part 2: Reuse]

February 17, 2010

Now that you have made the decision to implement a recycling program at work, where do you start? Easy. Start here, with five things you can do to save both your hard-earned profits and your planet.

• Get Help – It’s free from Pinellas County. County representatives will conduct a waste assessment of your business and make customized recommendations.  On-site training and follow up will also be provided. You can contact them by phone at (727) 464-7500 or by email at recycle@pinellas county.org. Not in Pinellas? Not to worry - many counties offer this service. Simply contact your county’s utility company or check its website.
• Learn – Watch the presentations, and read the educational materials that your county advisor provides. It’s also a good idea to get your hands on The A to Z Guide for Recycling & Disposal in Pinellas County.
• Challenge your employees – Set goals, create a good-natured competition and reward with incentives. Encourage participation and creativity by instituting a “Bright Idea of the Month” program. Need inspiration? Read how one company established successful employee buy-in: Deloitte: Best Practices for Going Green.
• Get Involved - Join a recycling network. The Pinellas Partners in Recycling group consists of representatives of Pinellas, its municipalities and other organizations involved in the recycling effort.  However, you may want to get micro-local by creating or joining one within your own office park.
• Close the Loop – Make the purchase of recycled products a priority for your company. When you purchase goods with recycled content, you help to create a demand for recycled materials. This is a win-win for you, your business and your environment.