Zero Waste Pittsburgh recommends the following overall course of action for institutions who want to start or enhance a recycling/ waste reduction program:

# Step 1 – Review

Review your recycling goals and who will work on/manage the project. If you are an educational institution, you will want to involve students in the program. Also, calculate your waste generation amount.

# Step 2 – Evaluate

Evaluate your waste hauler’s recycling capabilities and costs. Contract your waste hauler to provide the recycling services you are interested in.

Evaluate what waste you are generating that is not needed. 

# Step 3 – Plan

Plan for implementation at your business. Have the project manager and team devise a system for collection of recyclables and transportation to the container provided by your hauler.

Create plans to shift materials from single use/recyclable to multi-use to reduce overall waste output.

# Step 4 – Educate

Educate your employees and/or students on the new program and reinforce the recycling program at events throughout the year. Use posters, pledge cards, emails, contests, etc.

# Step 5 - Monitor and Evaluate

Monitor changes in trash and recycling. Evaluate the impact on your bottom line.

See how Zero Waste Pittsburgh can help you through this plan.