| Bank
of America makes paper recycling a clear mandate from top
management, and links the activity to the company's bottom
line: "Do not throw away wastepaper," the company
instructs employees online and in printed manuals.
But even the most well-intentioned programs
can break down if the process is too complex, there's no signal
from management that it's important, or there's no one in
charge of monitoring and marketing the program. Here are some
tips for avoiding those pitfalls:
Keep it simple. The fewer changes people must
make in their daily routines to recycle, the greater the chances
for success. Place collection containers in convenient, well-traveled
areas like restrooms, cafeterias, and copier rooms. (Better
yet, put recycling bins by everyone's desk—but make
them walk somewhere to throw something away.) Label bins or
collection boxes with clear information about what to put
in—and what to keep out.
Monitor and measure. Use surveys, interviews,
and inspections to see how the system is working. Spot-check
recycling bins and trash cans to see if people are following
directions about what to put where—without spying on
people, of course. Keep track of where paper is going: what
kinds and volumes of paper are being purchased, discarded,
and recycled? That will help you establish and track goals.
Sell, sell, sell. Market your program through
newsletters, posters, email, and company meetings. Sometimes
"word pictures" are an effective means to show results.
For example, the metropolitan Portland, Ore., region promotes
the fact that it "recycled 437,000 tons of paper in 2003,
which is the equivalent of stacking paper in a football field
to the height of two-thirds of a mile."
Seek and give feedback. Have someone available
to answer employee questions. Ask employees their ideas on
how to make the system easier to use. Let everyone know how
the program is going, including how much trash is being saved—or
could be saved—from landfills, and what that means for
the company in economic or other terms. Consider offering
incentives such as prizes or special events for individuals
and departments doing a good job.
Finally, don't rest on your laurels. Keep
in mind that even the most successful recycling programs need
continuous improvement, fresh thinking, and a periodic overhaul.
Waste
container | Dumpster
| Collapsable
Trash Cans |
Recycle
Different Types of Plastic
|
Recycling
in Phoenix |
Recycling
paper |
How
to recycle paper?
|
