Eco Friendly

Go green – start recycling at home and in the office!

You know recycling is the right thing to do...so do it now! Here are just a few tips to help you get started: 

·         Decide what you’d like to recycle. Aluminum? Glass? Paper? Plastic? Make sure you have the room to store and sort the “recyclables” you choose, and put them somewhere so they’re out of sight (but not so far away that they’re “out of mind”).

·         Find someone who will take the recyclables. Check with your local recycling center, municipality or waste hauler to find out what kinds of materials are accepted in your area.

·         Use the right container for the right recyclable. Cardboard boxes are good for holding newspapers and phone books, not so good for old water bottles and soda cans. Use a plastic bin or trash can instead for these items (and make sure you give them a good rinse after each emptying).

·         Let everyone know what’s going on. To make your recycling program a true success, you’re going to need the participation and cooperation of everyone. Make sure people know what goes where (if you mix and match recyclables in some communities, they won’t get picked up) and tell them about special instructions like rinsing cans or removing plastic caps.

·         Keep your recycling area neat and clean. Nothing kills participation faster than people seeing overflowing bins or unwashed containers. To save space, install a can “crusher” in your recycling area and make it a requirement that everyone “breaks down” and flattens their own boxes.

·         Monitor participation...and share the rewards. If someone isn’t doing their part, it’s OK to ask why (gently, of course) and by all means, if you’re getting cash for your recyclables, share the wealth! Throw a party...give it to charity...do whatever makes you feel good (because, after all, you just did something good for the environment!).

Check out recycled products from Quill online at www.quill.com/recycled.