No business, large or small, is free from waste. Every business generates trash, whether food scraps, packing materials, used office supplies, discarded electronic devices, or something else. Managing waste is key to reducing costs, going green, and creating a safer and more efficient workspace. In short, it’s one of the simplest savvy moves you can make. Here’s a look at five smart waste management strategies for small businesses. Apply these best practices to your business today!
Conduct a Waste Audit
The first step is understanding the kind of waste your business creates. A waste audit identifies the types and quantities of waste, allowing you to organize a plan. For instance, you may discover you’re throwing away too many recyclables and raw materials. Once you know this, you can look for ways to reduce waste at the source. Overall, charting the content and potential of your waste lets you create a targeted strategy for its reduction.
Set Up a Recycling Program
Recycling is the easiest way to reduce waste. Set up a recycling program in your workplace. Provide clearly labeled bins for paper, plastic, glass, and metal. Employees are far more likely to recycle if it’s convenient and well organized. Partnering with local recycling services minimizes the hassle as well.
Switch to Sustainable Supplies
Minimize waste by adopting sustainable supplies. These are products made from recycled materials and biodegradable matter.
For example, switch to refillable pens rather than disposable ballpoints and felt tips. Use recyclable printer paper for less important printouts that don’t require higher-grade paper (though many recycled papers are quite nice). In fact, try to become a paperless office, leaving receipts, forms, and similar documents in electronic format.
Sustainable supplies also help develop your reputation as a green company, which appeals to eco-conscious customers.
Repurpose Waste
Not every kind of waste is “one and done” and destined for the landfill. Repurpose materials wherever you can. For example, restaurants can turn fruit, vegetables, eggshells, uncoated paper, and the like into compost for a community garden. Offices can reuse packaging materials for shipping supplies and creative projects. Reusing and repurposing waste adds value, saves money, and extends your resources.
Partner With a Professional Waste Management Service
Sometimes, waste comes with other costs. For example, if you release hazardous materials into the environment or landfills, you could face fines and prosecution by federal, state, or local agencies. Reputable waste disposal companies help avoid legal liabilities and protect your reputation. They may also introduce you to new ways to cut waste and save money and resources.
Smart waste management isn’t just for large companies. Small businesses can apply these strategies and see the same benefits. By taking these steps, you can reduce costs, stay compliant, and build a more sustainable future for your business and the planet.
