In celebration of Global Recycling Day on 18th March 2022, experts at essentials service provider, Direct365, have shared a guide on the benefits of recycling for your business, and advice on how to achieve green goals.
Environmental awareness is rising and though the environmental benefits of recycling are widely discussed, action is still needed by consumers and corporations. Human consumption of the earth’s natural resources is having a direct impact on the planet, and we have a responsibility to reduce that impact where possible. Businesses tend to have at least some form of recycling in place but, Direct365 say there is more to be done. Companies should be of the ethos that “if you can recycle it, you should recycle it.”
“We have a responsibility as humans and also as businesses to look after the planet better. The environmental benefits of reducing waste to landfill and lowering production of more ‘things’ is essential for our future and at Direct365 we’re here to help businesses do this. Changing business practices to become greener can bring business benefits off the back of this, too. From lowering the costs to remove certain types of waste, to improving your brand image for consumers, clients and suppliers.”
5 benefits of recycling for businesses
- Meeting legal compliance regulations
Companies have an obligation to get rid of waste safely and within the law. There is a mountain of legal compliance required around waste management and even more when it comes to commercial and hazardous waste. Ensuring you are following regulations will not only make sure you are taking safety seriously for your employees, clients, and the world around you, but save you from the costs and reputational damage which can come from failing to meet requirements. - Multiple money saving benefits
Getting rid of business waste comes at a cost, so recycling can reduce the amount of waste going to landfill, in turn lowering costs. It can also reduce the need for space to store waste, in turn meaning lower space and storage costs. Recycling and reusing older items too can save money on purchasing new products. Plus, there are plenty of grants available for business who are making a change. For example, WRAP, a leading sustainability charity that works with businesses and governments, offers grants to help cut waste and promote sustainability. - Improved brand reputation and image
Consumers want to buy from businesses that are responsible and make efforts to do good. Green initiatives are increasingly important for consumers and so failing to follow basic best practices can be detrimental for businesses. This is becoming particularly prevalent in a range of industries. For example 65% would be willing to spend up to 20% more on eco-friendly products according to recent research. - Better employee culture
Employees want to work for companies that reflect their own values. Having recycling systems in place has come to be expected by staff. Providing the right facilities will save those who are passionate about it from having to research and find the right services or bins themselves. Getting the entire company behind green initiatives can be a great culture building activity. - Competitive advantage
Boasting green initiatives can give your business competitive advantage, differentiating between you and the competition. As businesses implement their own green policies, the difference between choosing suppliers can come down to small details such as your own environmental initiatives. Brands are increasingly going to be held accountable for the overall impact they have on the world.
Knowing how, what where and why can be a tough task, but that’s where your smartphone can help you out. Direct365 have shared their favourite smart phone apps to help you with recycling
- Recycle App
- Food Rescue
- Find Recycling
- Moozr
- Love Food Hate Waste
It is good to keep in mind that a professional recycling service can complement your current general waste collection, saving on landfill charges and reducing your business’s carbon footprint.
For more information about Direct365, visit: https://www.direct365.co.uk/
