Page 490 - Solid Waste Analysis and Minimization a Systems Approach

468 COMMERCIAL, RETAIL, FINANCIAL, AND GOVERNMENT OFFICE APPLICATIONS

As shown in the table, the recycling rate for this sector is approximately 10 percent.
As derived from the solid waste evaluation model discussed in Chap. 12, the equation
that estimates the annual waste generation per year per employee for this sector can
be calculated from the following:

Tons of solid waste generated per year = 0.43 × number of employees + 0.94

37.3 Constraints and Considerations

In general, establishing waste minimization programs in office settings is relatively
low-cost and numerous vendors are available in most areas to assist with collection and
processing at no charge. In light of the relative ease and low cost, several constraints
and considerations should be evaluated before finalizing the program, these include

■ Lack of available space—Many offices are very tight for space, in terms of outside
space for vendor containers, internal space for collection cans in common areas,
and desk-side space for individual recycle bins.
■ Fostering employee buy-in—Creating awareness of recycling programs and encour-
aging employee involvement in the program go hand in hand. Understanding the
psychology of recycling and honing in on employee motivation is key.
■ Fluctuations in the local commodity market for paper—Drops in the commodity
markets will affect the revenue generated from the sale of office paper and low mar-
kets may reduce the number of available vendors.
■ Contracting with suitable vendors and relationship management—Developing
strong relationships with organizations and vendors that will support and strengthen
facility recycling programs is critical. Many of these companies offer value added
advice and additional networking opportunities.
■ Security concerns for confidential documents—Many organizations and consumers
are concerned about private or proprietary information getting into the wrong
hands. Safeguards, contracts, and standard processes usually remedy these issues.
■ Separation of recyclables—Sorting recyclable materials and removing them from
the waste stream can present challenges in office settings set; employees may be
inclined to do what is easiest. If the general waste bin is closer than the recycling
bin and requires less effort, employees may not have the motivation to recycle.

37.4 Potential Technologies

and Strategies

Several proven strategies exist to implement and sustain office-oriented-recycling
programs. Most are very low cost, but require a moderate to high degree of commu-
nication and coordination. Following is a brief list of such methods: