RECYCLING & WASTE MANAGEMENT


TAILORING YOURAPPROACH


Daniel Redfern, Director at Envirovue, shares his recommended methods for sustainable waste management and best practices for facility managers.


The approach to waste management is something that has evolved rapidly over the last ten years, particularly as the Government commits to eradicating emissions from all economic sectors by 2050.


The focus has shifted towards sustainability, emphasising waste reduction, recycling, composting and managing waste more effectively to contribute to broader environmental goals. When considering sustainability targets, it’s vital that facilities managers tailor their approach to multiple waste streams to effectively reduce the company’s carbon footprint.


The best outcome is to limit the amount of waste being produced, whilst engaging with the sustainable disposal of unavoidable waste.


Reducing waste and streamlining


waste streams Investing in waste surveys and collecting insightful data acts as a fantastic tool for facility managers, creating routes to identifying areas where waste can be reduced through regular monitoring.


Taking a holistic approach to waste is a must, rather than approaching with specific items in mind. Facilities managers should first go back to basics and evaluate what waste they are producing.


Daniel explains: “Targeting items with intensive recycling systems, such as batteries, can seem like an excellent strategy, but without comprehensive statistics, how can you effectively manage your requirements for the number of batteries your firm is recycling?


“Data is key here; facilities managers can coordinate surveys and utilise the in-depth data to tailor their approach to the actual waste requirements - saving time and money in the long run.”


Investing in technology Facilities managers should harness the support of technology to manage waste sustainably, reducing both the environmental impact and overall costs.


Implementing and investing in tech solutions can be complex and costly, particularly as facility managers are


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often expected to do more with less. Selecting a waste partner that is able to target all present waste types on site is integral to a cost-effective partnership.


Daniel explains: “Although some waste management firms will apply technology for certain items or waste streams, it’s rarely done in a way that gives sites true insight into how to reduce waste or find the quick wins when looking to reduce cost and environmental impact.


“This is often because asset-based waste companies will favour the use of their assets rather than those best for the job. A compactor can be a great asset that makes waste management more efficient as it reduces the amount of collections required, reducing cost and environmental impact.”


Bolstering education Education plays a critical role in solid waste management by increasing awareness, promoting behavior change, and fostering community engagement.


“Is your wider team engaging with recycling outputs?” Do your colleagues understand the importance or requirements of the waste management system implemented by your partner?”


These are some of the other questions Daniel asks facility managers across the UK, as a huge barrier for effective waste management is colleagues not engaging with the required process.


He adds: “Using education, we must change mindsets so that behaviours align with the waste management systems deployed to maximise recycling initiatives.


“When you select your waste management partner, always ask about the educational tools that are available to support your team. Creating incentives where staff benefit from being sustainable can be one route, or efficiently tracking waste results can motivate colleagues to want to continue to improve recycling and work more sustainably.


“Education ultimately starts with staff engagement and celebrating recycling wins that reduce waste going landfill is the perfect place to start.”


www.envirovue.io twitter.com/TomorrowsFM


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