Far to often it would seem that recycling is seen as something that is done at home, and seems to be forgotten by some when they go to work. While it can be something that is often seen as being a company responsibility, it is really something that everyone can have an impact on.
Recycling is kind of similar to Reuse, however differs at the same time. Recycling has a lot wider range of application for businesses then that of reuse. Because where as a business may not have the capacity to be able to reuse everything. Recycling reuses things in a different way. So as such recycling can also be applied to items that are longer able to be reused as well as items that you do not have a reuse for.
Recycling can help to reduce your businesses impact on the environment quite a lot. While there will always be somethings that are inevitably unable to be reduced, reused or recycled. A fair majority of items these days can be recycled including,
Paper – Although the idea of the paperless office came around many years ago. The actual reality comes down to paper is still very much used in just about every office. While some of this paper can be reused as previously suggested(reuse). There is also a portion which needs to be securely destroyed or is otherwise not reusable because it is used on both sides. With this paper, the use of a secure document destruction company will often allow this paper to be recycled.
Plastic – While for some businesses plastic is far from an issue, there are other’s which end up with 50% or more of their waste is plastic. It is possible to recycle plastic with-in your business just like paper, you just need to find where it is possible to do so locally.
Electronics – Computers, Printers, tv’s and the like all seem to have a limited life span. At some point they will no longer be worth repairing or trying to work with. At this point you have two options either throw it away which can cause a big impact on the landfill, with materials that are not going to breakdown. Or you can look for a local recycling program that specifically covers electronics. Some will charge a fee while others are offer free. A good place to check for information is with your local council.
Ink & Toner – One of the most common consumables used by business in ink and toner cartridges for their printers. As such the recycling of these has become one of the more commonly found recycling efforts. Many stores that sell cartridges offer a recycle service, and it is even possible to sign up directly as a business to get a recycle box for cartridges at your business. Which can be particularly beneficial if you have a large number of printers or copiers.
Industrial waste – For those businesses that operate as a manufacturer, there are always going to be offcuts, and unused excess which needs to be disposed of somehow. There are many programs and ways that different parts of your waste can be disposed of. It can sometimes just take a little bit of research to find the best options for your business.
In the end the waste that your business creates can be quite minimal, by taking advantage of the ability to reduce, reuse and recycle the waste products that come from your business activities, your business can be much more environmentally friendly. So while it may cost a little time in research, and it could take a little money you can feel better in the knowing that you are doing something for the environment.