A recycling plan helps to organize the information necessary for a successful recycling program. The plan can also identify responsibilities for implementing the program and the goals that you would like to achieve.  A recycling plan also serves as an important reference document when things change.  For example, if a contracted custodial service provider changes, the plan is a great reference for how recycling is handled in your place of business.   Similarly, elements of the plan can be helpful during on-boarding of new employees or opening a new location. A Recycling Plan Template has been provided at the bottom of this page to get you started!

Include these representatives:

In order to create an effective plan, you’ll want to include a cross-section of departments and employees.  Involving the right people in the planning of a program not only allows for the identification of potential challenges that need to be addressed prior to starting a program, it creates a deeper understanding of the program and employee buy-in when it is time to move to implementation. Consider including the following representatives when creating your plan:

Questions your plan should answer?

• What are the goals for program?
  • Goals can be helpful to organize and prioritize the appropriate actions to take
  • Consider making your goals: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time-Bound (“SMART”)
• What materials will be accepted in the recycling program?
  • Determined by your Recycling Service Provider
  • Does this change for specific parts of your operation?
• What type of collection containers will be used?
  • Will different containers be used in different places, such as deskside, adjacent to copiers, in break rooms, and in public spaces?
• What kind of signage will be used on the containers?
  • Where can employees find copies of the signage if it needs to be replaced?
• Where will the recycling collection containers be located?
  • Floor Plans showing the exact locations of the containers can be helpful
• Who is responsible for service/collection of the recycling containers?
  • Internally (Housekeeping/Custodial)
    • How often is that service to be expected?
    • Who is responsible for maintaining internal recycling containers?
    • Where will recyclables be stored internally prior to collection by your service provider?
    • Who will be the point of contact for the internal service?
  • Externally (Service Provider/Hauler)
    • How often is that service to be expected?
    • Where will the recyclables be stored externally?   
    • Who will be the internal point of contact for the service provider?