Recycling is one of the easiest and quickest things we can do to be more environmentally friendly.
Whether our workspace is an office, a cafe, a museum, a shop, gallery, or a studio – there is always something we can do to recycle more.
If you’re just starting out in trying to be more sustainable, and are looking for some quick eco-friendly tips, then this is the blog for you. Here we share with you some things that any business, whether small or large, can do to recycle more and reduce their carbon footprint.
Why is recycling more a good idea?
Not only does it help to reduce items going to landfill, the oceans being polluted, and the impact that your business has on the environment, it is also something that customers are looking for.
In a recent study for Forbes, more than 88% of consumers stated that they believe companies should try to achieve their business goals while improving society and the environment.
Recycling is a great way that businesses can start their journey towards sustainability, and a first step in improving society and the environment.
So, what can we do?
Recycled Products
If you have a shop or a space that includes a gift shop then having recycled products as items that you sell is one really great way to be sustainable. An example is choosing to sell notebooks made from recycled waste, or pencils that you can plant. These are things you can do to make sure your products have an extended life. When customers see that their item is recycled or can be recycled, it encourages them to think about sustainability. Perhaps have a sign explaining more about your recycled products and about what they are made from. This can get customers interested in the process of recycling.
Recycled packaging and bags is another way to reduce the carbon footprint of any sold items. Having bags that are paper or compostable are great options. Tote/reusable bags are another way to avoid plastic bags being thrown away. These are even more sustainable if they are made from recycled fabric or dead-stock material.
Having packaging that is compostable or can be reused as a food bin liner, that can be recycled, or has been recycled is another way to avoid selling plastic that pollutes the ocean.
If you are an office, make sure that all your paper is recycled for any paper that is necessary. Though it is just a small change, it can make a big difference. Printing on both sides is another small adjustment to reduce paper waste.
Encouraging Reusable
If you have a cafe or a lunch space then encouraging reusable cups for employees/customers is one way to reduce waste. Reducing the cost of a coffee for customers, or creating a space that is reusable cups only can be a way to encourage reusing.
If your are a shop, selling reusable products such as reusable cups are one way to do this. If you are an office then reusable cups for staff are also a good idea. Giving them as gifts or as a thank you can be a way to bring sustainable living to the team.
Have More Recycling Facilities Than Needed
Having recycling bins, different ones for paper and glass etc, in every room is a good way to keep it on people’s minds. Having a recycling bin always near means people are not tempted to simply throw away out of ease. People want to recycle. They want to be more sustainable. It is important therefore to make sure that it is always an option.
Being Creative
If you are a museum, art gallery, or any creative space, then making art from rubbish can be another way to recycle and be creative. Creating exhibitions and art pieces using materials that would otherwise go to landfill can raise awareness of pollution and recycling.
This is also a great opportunity to get kids involved. Encourage them to save and bring with them their waste from the last few days. This could be anything from sweet wrappers and crisp packets to newspapers. Encourage them to make art with these leftovers. It can be a way to encourage kids to be creative while also reusing products.
You’ve now made recycling a top priority in your business. Do you want to know what else you can do to be sustainable? Here are some blogs where we share how you can go further in your sustainability journey:
