Top 10 Ways to Boost Workplace Sustainability
Without Losing 1 Ounce of Sanity
Okay, so maybe workplace recycling and sustainability efforts never made it to David Lettermen’s Nightly Top 10 List, but the really good news is that it’ is far easier than you might think. The trick it seems, is to apply the age old KISS rule—a/k/a Keep It Simple Simon :)
Because yes, a few simple changes really can turn your office from a landfill-in-the-making to an eco-friendly utopia. So what say we take a minute or three to dive into ten practical ways to enhance your workplace sustainability efforts.
1. Conduct a Waste Audit—No Magnifying Glass Needed.
Ever wonder what your office throws away the most? Conduct a waste audit to find out. It’s like detective work, but instead of solving crimes, you’re solving your workplace trash issues. Once you know what’s filling up the bins and learn alternative methods to deal with it, you can tailor your recycling efforts accordingly. Spoiler Alert: Food Loops offers FREE waste audits.
2. Set Up Clearly Marked Recycling Stations—Because No One Reads Minds.
Recycling only works if people know where to put things. Set up clearly marked stations with separate bins for paper, plastics, metals, glass, and organics like the popcorn Betsy from Accounting always manages to burn in the microwave. Bonus points if you use engaging signs because nothing says “Recycle Cans Here” like a picture of a soda can complete with puppy dog eyes pleading for a second chance.
3. Implement E-Waste Recycling—Your Old Printer is Not a Paperweight.
Got outdated electronics collecting dust? E-waste, like old computers, printers, and phones, can be hazardous if not disposed of properly. Partner with a local e-waste recycling programs like www.bestbuy.com/recycling and give those gadgets a proper send-off.
4. Use Recycled Office Supplies–Because Trees Are Tired of Our Nonsense.
Swap your office supplies for items made from recycled materials. Think paper, refillable ink cartridges, and even furniture. Every time you use a recycled product; you’re giving materials a second life. And who doesn’t love a good comeback story?
5. Educate Employees—But Without Sounding Like a Recycling Robot.
Hold quick, engaging training sessions re: proper recycling practices. Make it interactive, throw in a game or a friendly competition, and keep everyone updated on new policies. Remember: no one wants to sit through a 60-minute lecture on trash sorting.
6. Reduce Single-Use Items & Say Goodbye to that Mountain of Coffee Cups.
Single use styrofoam or plastics? No thanks! Encourage employees to bring their own reusable cups, plates, and utensils. If you have a reception area for visitors, stock it with compostable cups & utensils which are an excellent alternative to single use styrofoam and/or plastic cups. Spoiler Alert.2! Food Loops carries a phenomenal selection of all things compostable from cold/hot cups, to plates & napkins, to eating utensils. Check it out at www.foodloops.net
7. Recycle Specialty Items—Because Light Bulbs & Batteries
Don’t Belong in the Trash.
Some things, like lithium & alkaline batteries as well as fluorescent, incandescent & LED light bulbs, require special recycling programs. Check with area drop-off locations like 1560 S. Happy Hollow Road in Fayetteville for lithium & alkaline battery drop off, or eSCO in Rogers at 2111 S. 8th Street for light bulbs & other items, to ensure these items don’t end up in the landfill. Holiday Bonus: the Happy Hollow location in Fayetteville also accepts all those delightfully tangled, burned out Christmas light strings!
8. Partner with Green Vendors—Because Sustainability is a Team Sport.
When possible, work with vendors who take back packaging for reuse or recycling. Whether it’s office supplies, food services, or furniture, choosing eco-friendly vendors helps your workplace shrink its environmental footprint.
9. Compost Organic Waste—Because All Those Coffee Grounds
Have More Yet to Give.
If your office has a kitchen, set up a compost bin for food scraps and coffee grounds. Better yet, look into services like Food Recycling Solutions at www.foodrecyclingsolutions.com for information re: scheduling pickups of your organic waste.
Not only does this greatly reduce landfill waste, it can then be processed into nutrient rich fertilizer to be used in gardens or green spaces. And that’s not even counting how much Mother Nature will love you for it.
10. Monitor, Improve, Then Celebrate Like It’s 1999.
Set quarterly goals and track your progress. Celebrate milestones—whether it’s reducing waste, increasing recycling rates, or nominating best coffee mug of the month—every small win counts. Blasting Prince on the office PA optional.
To Sum Up!
If the above seems a bit overwhelming—no judgment because even with the best of intentions we’re all still busy people. But good to know there’s an answer for that. With no more than a phone call to Tom Rohr @ 479.621.5642 or shooting him a note at Tom@foodloops.net, he’ll be happy to discuss everything from setting up a free waste audit, to working with you to design & implement a clear cut, doable, plan to address the specific waste issues at your workplace.
Go ahead, give him a shout. What’ve you got to lose other than a ton or two of waste going to the landfill every year?!