Image SourceEvery company has a duty to dispose of their waste responsibly. New methods of recycling and minimising waste are constantly coming in. Here are a few ways you could cut down on waste in your business, cut costs and help save the planet.
Go paperless
Computers have eliminated much of the need to use paper. Letters, documents, contracts and payslips can all be emailed or shared via the cloud. Diaries and calendars can be stored on one’s phone. There are even apps and programmes available to sign documents electronically.
In the office, going paperless can save a lot of space and money. Printers and filing cabinets can be done away with, and paper, ink and postage costs can be deducted. Of course, other companies will still mail you contracts and leaflets, but you yourself can feel proud knowing that your company is cutting down on paper usage.
Embrace recycling
Recycling needn’t be an inconvenience. Most councils offer a recycling service that may include plastics, glass, aluminium and paper. Contact them and see if they can send someone to collect recycled waste at your office.
There are many ways your business can embrace recycling from using reusable ink cartridges to composting food waste. This site offers more information on how to encourage recycling in the office.
Tackle the toilets
Did you know that the drainage water from your sink can be recycled and used a toilet flushing water? This not only preserves local water use, but cuts costs.
Human waste itself can also be effectively recycled. If you’re a company that works out on the field and uses portaloos, there are companies that can dispose of this human waste and turn it into fertile compost for plants.
Take care with chemicals
Chemicals – particularly hazardous substances – need to be safely disposed of. This may require hiring a specialist company such as Mulholland Energy Services. You may also need special health and safety equipment and training to deal with this waste’s storage and disposable.
Where possible, look for biologically-friendly or recyclable alternatives. This may include cleaning fluids and soaps. Sites such as Big Green Smile are able to offer a selection of such products.
Know the legalities
There are various rules and regulations surrounding waste disposal that should be read up on. You may need to register to dispose of your own waste, by signing a waste transfer note. Certain laws may also dictate how your store waste which could include clearly labelling contents or using waterproof covers to stop contaminated run-off when raining. Such strict laws generally apply only to chemicals that could be hazardous or otherwise dangerous waste such as glass.
Government sites and local councils may be able to offer more information on the legislation surrounding your company’s waste. It is worth seeking advice on these matters to avoid accidentally disposing of a material in an inappropriate way that could cause harm to others.
