Step 7: Education and Promotion

Educate your employees and customers about your recycling program.

Education of your employees and customers should help guarantee the success of your recycling program. For the program to excel, workers need to consistently follow the rules about separating material. Sometimes customers may also get involved.

At minium, businesses should promote their recycling program to their customers as a sign of efficiency and environmental stewardship. Over time, people may forget the policies — repetition, reminders and promotion is an ongoing process. Some education tips appear below.

Employees

• Provide education as part of new employee orientation.
• Tell your staff what you hope to accomplish recycling.
• Periodically reinforce education during staff meetings.
• Have special training for janitorial staff on how to consolidate material for the hauler.
• Empower janitorial staff to monitor the program for any new problems.
• Train grounds crews to handle yard waste.
• Make a DO and DON'T list for recyclables and post it near work stations.
• Remember to ask your staff for their input — include them in the decision process to encourage participation.

Customers

• Promote your program in-house with charts and posters.
• Include information in your advertising.
• Mention the program in your guest information packets.
• Always put a recycling container next to a garbage can.
• Make recycling bins stand out.