The first step to increase your office recycling efficiency is to conduct a waste audit of your facility. Being mindful of what is being thrown away will increase the amount of items that can be recycled as an alternative. Here is a list of some items that can be recycled:

• E-Waste (cell phones, computers, printers, batteries, ink cartridges, and cables)
• Light bulbs
• Cardboard
• Pizza Boxes (If they are clean)
• Aluminum cans & bottles
• Newspaper
• Magazines
• Paper
• Glass

Use centralized recycling bins and take away employee’s individual trash bins. When employees sort their own waste they will become more aware of what they are throwing out. Having the convenience of throwing their trash under the desk will reduce the amount of materials being put into the recycling bins. Encourage your employees to use reusable lunch bags and Tupperware containers. Some companies actually provide their employees with these items and will also provide reusable coffee mugs. The average North American office worker uses 500 disposable cups a year and throws away 2.5 million plastic bottles every hour! Frequently monitor and report on the office recycling program and progress. If you post your results and goals near your recycling bins, it will encourage people to do their best and it may influence them to carry those efforts over to their home life as well!