When it comes to recycling and retaining the value of recyclables, the clean stream method is one of the best ways to accomplish this goal.  This method refers to the separating of all recyclables within office recycling programs into separate bins.  There is usually a bin for papers, plastics, metals, and all other recyclables.  Instead of separating recyclables out at the recycling company, the separation occurs at the workplace itself.  So why is this method the best?

Quality of Materials

In the 90s, there was a big push to get more people on board with recycling.  To do so, many places went to a single stream recycling system where all recycling was put into one single bin to be sorted later.  While this brought in more recyclable items, it didn’t take into account the quality of the items being recycled.  When yogurt containers or shampoo bottles or other messy objects get placed into a bin with other recyclables, of course, it is going to get all over everything in that bin.  This not only downgrades the quality, but it can also render recyclables unfit.

Effective Recycling Process

Whether it is referred to as the clean stream process, dual stream, or source separation recycling, this type of recycling is a more effective process that produces better quality reusable recycling products.  Clean materials retain their value and are easier to reuse.  This process, while possibly resulting in a slight decrease in convenience for consumers, is still the strongest, most effective process overall.

Customizable Recycling

The clean steam process can be easily customized to meet the needs of any business or facility.  Based on what is commonly discarded for each business type, clean stream bins can be placed in buildings to meet each facility’s recycling needs, whether it be cardboard and metal for a dry cleaning business or paper and cardboard for an office recycling program.  When considering a clean stream method, be sure to take into account the most common office recyclables when planning out bins for collection. To find out more about clean stream and commercial recycling or recycling pickup for your office recycling program, contact Mission Recycle.