Did you know that the US Environmental Protection Agency estimates that paper and paperboard account for almost 40% of our garbage? For copy and printing paper alone, 3.7 million tons of paper is used annually. With so many going green efforts out there, the majority of workplaces have a recycling program in place.  It is important to take time to evaluate your program or get started to initiate one today! A successful recycling program needs to be simple and convenient for all everyone involved. Here are some basic tips to ensure your program is working to the full potential.

• Location- Place recycling containers in the most relevant spots as possible. This includes exits and entrances at work stations, desks, next to machinery, near mail rooms, printers, faxes, and lunch rooms. The more convenient and widespread around your facility the better.
• Labels- Mark all recycling containers with signs and/or labels to distinguish what can and cannot be placed inside.
• Monitor- Watch all the trash cans on a regular basis to see if anything could be recycled instead of being thrown out.
• Educate- Explain to employees why they should participate in recycling at your facility and educate them on the do’s and don’t of your program.
• Systems- In high traffic areas, sometimes it is better to make sure any type of recycled material can be placed there. Whether this is paper, cans, bottles,  Seton carries are plenty of containers and bins available to divide the items.

Do you recycle on a daily basis? Does your company? Take a minute to think about your habits and look over these tips for improvement.  Practice makes perfect.

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