Introduction

Recycling is a series of activities that includes collecting used, reused, or unused items that would otherwise be considered waste; sorting and processing the recyclable products into raw materials; and remanufacturing the recycled raw materials into new products. While it can be assumed that most Americans believe strongly in the importance of recycling, millions of tons of materials that could be recycled are still simply thrown away.

This Fact File helps to identify the benefits of recycling, explains what can be recycled, offers strategies for businesses to consider when implementing a recycling program, and special considerations. For those businesses with an established recycling program, the information presented here will serve as a reminder of how to maintain an effective program.

Benefits of recycling

Establishing and maintaining a recycling program at your business has many benefits:

• Reducing greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change;
• Preventing releases of air and water pollutants;
• Saving energy;
• Supplying valuable raw materials to industry;
• Creating jobs;
• Stimulating the development of greener technologies;
• Conserving resources for our children’s future; and
• Reducing the need for new landfills and combustors.

Recycling also can include composting of food scraps, yard trimmings, and other organic materials.

Recycling 101: What can be recycled?

The most common items that can be recycled include:

It is always important to check with your local county or municipality to determine your local recycling options and what is accepted in your area. Some recycling providers require different types of materials to be collected in separate bins (multi-stream recycling), whereas other providers may accept different types of materials that are put together in the same bin (single-stream recycling).

A common source of confusion on what to recycle may stem from the recycling symbol found on products and packaging; the little number inside the ‘chasing arrows’ symbol. This symbol does not mean that the material is made from recycled material. It does not mean it will get recycled if it is dropped in a recycle bin. The chasing arrows symbol with the number in it simply identifies the type of plastic resin used in that product. It is an unregulated symbol that any manufacturer can use.

4 steps to implement a recycling program at your business

1. One of the easiest places to start is to contact the company that handles the garbage hauling and disposal at your business. Ask them if they offer recycling services. If they don’t, an online search at earth911.com or recyclenation.com can provide a good starting point for finding a recycling program that suites your needs.
2. Engage with your employees and work on shaping positive change. Make recycling easy and consider starting small by asking your employees to recycle glass, paper, and aluminum cans. Placing carefully labeled collection bins throughout your facility will assist employees in their recycling efforts. Communicating with your employees on exactly what can and can’t be recycled is important. Inform your employees that putting items in the recycling bin that can’t be recycled can contaminate the recycling stream, as well as potentially damage equipment at the recycling center.
3. Once you have a foundational recycling program in place, begin to analyze other items that are commonly used in the workplace that can (and should) be recycled. Check every item before discarding of it – you may be surprised at just how much can be recycled.
4. Consider appointing an individual to oversee and champion the program. This will give the program leadership and help it be successful. This can be an Environment, Safety, and Health professional, but often someone in a production or maintenance role is a more effective choice. These leaders are closer to the processes where recyclables are created and collected and tend to be more relatable to employees.

Special considerations

It should be mentioned that certain items, while they may possess the same or similar attributes of a recyclable material, are in fact not allowed in a single- or multi-stream recycling container as mentioned above. That’s not to say you can simply discard them either. The universal waste regulations found in 40 CFR 273 streamline hazardous waste management standards for specific, federally designated wastes. The rule is designed to reduce the amount of hazardous waste items to landfills, to encourage recycling and proper disposal of certain common hazardous wastes, and to reduce the regulatory burden on businesses that generate these wastes. The five specific categories of materials that can be managed as universal waste include batteries, pesticides, mercury-containing equipment, lamps, and non-empty aerosol cans. Check your local and state laws regarding the proper management of this type of waste.

Applicable law & regulations

40 CFR Part 273

Related definitions

“Recycling” means the process of converting waste materials into new materials and objects.

“Universal waste” means a category of waste materials designated as hazardous waste but containing materials that are very common.

Keys to remember

1. Recycling in the workplace is easier than it seems.
2. Almost everything can be recycled.
3. Universal waste regulations can vary from state to state.

Real world example

Internet retailer Amazon offers a take back program of popular electronics such as the Kindle and Fire devices should they break, or the customer decides to upgrade to the latest model. They recognize that in some areas, the disposal of rechargeable batteries and certain electronic devices are regulated and recommends the consumer act in accordance with their local laws and regulations. The trade-in program allows customers to receive an Amazon gift card in exchange for thousands of eligible items, including both Amazon and non-Amazon devices.