Recycling is the Law

Since September 2003, Santa Barbara County has had a Mandatory Commercial Recycling Program that requires businesses in the unincorporated areas to recycle items like glass, paper, metal, cardboard, hard plastics, and other recyclables.

Additionally, in 2012 California passed Assembly Bill (AB) 341, which established a Mandatory Commercial Recycling Program statewide.  "Business" as defined under AB 341 includes any commercial or public entity that generates four or more cubic yards of commercial solid waste per week, including but not limited to:

• Schools and school districts, colleges, and universities;
• Special districts;
• Governmental agencies; and
• Multi-family dwellings (e.g. apartments, condominiums) of five units or more.

For more information on AB 341, please click here.

It Makes Business Sense

• Because recycling is less expensive than trash disposal, your net operating costs can be reduced
• Buying re-manufactured goods and those with recycled-content can also save money
• Customers, employees, and the community notice when businesses are environmentally friendly
• It doesn't cost much to start a recycling and waste reduction program, but the savings continue for as long as the program is in place

We're Here to Help!

If you need assistance establishing or improving a recycling program, email us or call (805) 882-3624. We're committed to helping local businesses reduce waste, recycle, and buy products made of recycled materials. Some of the services we offer include:

• Individual business consultations and waste audits
• On-site assistance and provision of free indoor recycling containers
• Referrals to trash and recycling service providers
• Business waste reduction guides and fact sheets
• Presentations at meetings and conferences
• Information about becoming a certified "green" business under the Green Business Program of Santa Barbara County
• Free outreach materials such as posters, magnets, and flyers

Starting Your Business Recycling Program

The following is a step-by-step guide to help you design a program specifically for your business. By implementing a program, you can save money and natural resources, and impact your bottom line. You can start by recycling just a few items and slowly increase the amount of materials.

If you already have a program in place, this section can help you expand it. Also, be sure to check out our Outreach Materials Page.

And if you still can't find the information you're looking for, you can always contact us.

Table of Contents

Click a page below or download the section from our Recycling Resource Guide.

• Step 1: Winning Organizational Support

• Step 2: Choose a Recycling Coordinator

• Step 3: Estimating your Waste Reduction Potential
  • Where does waste come from and what is recoverable?
  • What materials are commonly purchased & discarded?
  • Understand your waste hauling system
  • Are there neighboring recycling programs?
  • Organize your information

• Step 4: Contact RR&WMD or your Waste Hauler

• Step 5: Setting up your program
  • Analyze costs and benefits
  • Choose recycling containers
  • Locate recycling bins strategically
  • Prepare storage areas
  • Use in-house staff to consolidate
  • Set up a reuse area
  • Establish a composting program
  • Form purchasing coalitions

• Step 6: Educate and Motivate Employees

• Step 7: Waste Prevention Purchasing

Step 1: Obtain Organizational Support

Management Support

Employee participation in a recycling program is greater when there is enthusiastic support by management. To obtain management’s support, be sure to explain the:

• Environmental benefits:  saving energy and water, reducing the waste sent to a landfill, and reducing air pollution; and
• Economic benefits, potential for savings on the trash bill, since recycling service costs less than trash service.

Step 2: Choose a Recycling Coordinator

Select an employee to coordinate waste reduction, reuse, and recycling activities

Consider someone who is interested in environmental matters and has some knowledge about waste reduction and recycling. The coordinator should be someone who is enthusiastic, communicates well with co-workers, and who can dedicate enough time in the immediate future to establish an effective program.

The Recycling Coordinator’s primary responsibilities should be to:

• Look at areas to prevent waste by purchasing reusable, durable, and repairable equipment and supplies.
• Work with suppliers to reduce packaging.
• Reuse items and eliminate or reduce waste-generating activities wherever possible.
• Target materials for mulching and recycling.
• Work with your solid waste service provider to arrange pickup schedules and the Resource Recovery and Waste Management Division to review other program specifics.
• Ensure that recycling containers are located next to trash containers.
• Promote waste reduction awareness in the workplace.
• Monitor, evaluate, and change the system as needed.
• Network with other businesses and local governmental staff; attend training sessions and seminars on waste management, if possible; and subscribe to waste management publications.

A large business can form a recycling committee

Consider forming a committee with representatives from key departments, such as purchasing, receiving, and maintenance to:

• Discuss how to best implement waste reduction at your workplace. 
• Include fellow employees in the development of the program.
• Include department heads and support staff. 

The broader the base of support and enthusiasm, the greater your chances of cooperation and success.

Step 3: Estimate Your Waste Reduction Potential

Opportunities for waste prevention are often hidden in inefficient processes. Look for ways to operate more efficiently.  To develop an effective program, conduct a waste evaluation to estimate your waste reduction potential and understand your existing waste management practices:

• Identify the materials generated and their path through your facility from point of purchase to ultimate disposal. Do a visual survey of your trash dumpster to determine the materials that can be recycled and their estimated percentage of the total .   
• Or contact the Resource Recovery and Waste Management Division (RR&WMD) at (805) 882-3624 to schedule a free waste audit.

Where does the waste come from and what is recoverable?

Walk through your facility and note:

1. What type of work is done in each area?
2. What activities produce waste?
3. What type of waste is produced?
4. What waste can be prevented, reused, or recycled?

Look in the containers where waste is stored to determine the type of waste being generated by your business. Different businesses will generate different types of reusable and/or recyclable materials. For example:

• An administrative office may generate white office paper while 
• A retail outlet may generate large amounts of corrugated cardboard. 

Evaluate where recyclable containers could be placed, their size, and the frequency of service you will require.

What materials are commonly purchased and discarded?

Ask purchasing and maintenance staff about current purchasing and disposal practices to get a better idea of the flow of materials through your facility and the types of waste being generated.  Also, ask:

• Could this material be reused? 
• Could this material be packaged differently? 
• Could an activity be altered to prevent waste?

If applicable, interview your landscaper/groundskeeper or other responsible staff about green waste (grass clippings, leaves, etc.) and potential opportunities for reduction through composting, mulching or grasscycling. Grasscycling is the natural recycling of grass by leaving the clippings on the lawn when mowing.

Understand your waste hauling system

It is important to know who your solid waste service provider is and to understand your existing waste hauling system.

Direct service means that the hauler deals with your account individually and only trash from your business is going into the dumpster. Large businesses tend to have direct service; therefore, cost savings can be realized when recycling services are added, due to decreased disposal costs.

Shared service is usually provided by the property manager for a group of businesses. If this is the case, contact your property manager and inquire about recycling. Shared service provides a great opportunity to develop a cost-effective recycling program by combining materials with other commercial establishments on the property.

Are there recycling programs at neighboring businesses?

• What wastes are being reduced, reused, and recycled? If neighboring businesses have recycling programs, inquire about the logistics and details of these programs. Often, simple and practical systems can be duplicated. There is no reason to re-invent the wheel.
• Determine the types of waste that other businesses have eliminated or reduced, the types of materials that are reused or recycled, how the wastes are collected and transported, and the costs associated with the program. 
• Find out if it is possible to consolidate your efforts with other businesses to make recycling more cost-effective. 

Organize your information

Once you have completed your waste evaluation with the help of the Business Recycling Coordinator (882-3624), you will have a good idea of the types and quantities of recyclable materials your company produces and opportunities for waste prevention. You will then be ready to plan your program and to contact your solid waste service provider to initiate service.

Step 4: Contact the Resource Recovery and Waste Management Division or your Solid Waste Service Provider

Contact your existing solid waste service provider or the Resource Recovery and Waste Management Division to arrange for delivery of recycling bins or carts. Recycling will undoubtedly be a major component of your waste management program and will require coordination with your solid waste service provider. Recycling is more cost-effective when integrated with existing waste removal operations. If your company pays for waste disposal based upon the frequency of service or the amount of waste generated rather than a flat fee, waste prevention and recycling may be financially rewarding. Often, businesses can reduce disposal costs.

Step 5: Setting Up Your Program

Analyze the costs and benefits of waste prevention activities

Analyze the purchase, labor, utility, and disposal costs of waste prevention activities such as purchasing durable or repairable supplies and equipment. While it may cost more up front, you will probably find there are significant cost savings in the long term.

Choose appropriate recycling containers

• The size and style of recycling equipment varies. Ask your solid waste service provider or the RR&WMD for the size receptacles that are suitable for your situation. 
• In many cases, the County will provide containers free of charge. 
• You may wish to purchase your own personalized recycling bins with your company’s logo or convert existing trash containers into recycling containers. 
• Many recycling containers are made of recycled materials; therefore, purchase and use them whenever possible.

Locate and label workspace recycling bins strategically

• To encourage participation among employees and to avoid contaminating recyclables, place recycling bins in all heavy traffic areas, common work areas, and most importantly, in locations where the recyclables are typically generated. 
• Recycling bins near copy machines and desktop containers for office paper, as well as larger, leak-resistant, recycling bins for bottles and cans in cafeteria areas, are typical examples. 
• It is important to clearly label recycling containers in order to prevent employees and visitors from using them as trash bins. Make sure there are plenty of trash and recycling containers.

Prepare storage areas

Your solid waste service provider and the RR&WMD will assist you in setting up the main storage area so that both trash and recycling dumpsters are accessible for pick-up crews and any heavy equipment that may be needed for unloading and loading operations.

Use in-house staff to consolidate the recyclables from the recycling containers to one main storage area

There are several reasons to use in-house staff to consolidate the recyclables:

• Recycling bins in the workplace will not overflow
• Recycling programs are generally more cost-effective when integrated with existing waste disposal and removal systems. Often, existing maintenance operations can be adjusted to include recycling with no significant increase in workload. Many companies will use an alternating collection system in which assigned staff collect recyclables one day and refuse the next. Also, for office settings, consider whether your recyclables would be better consolidated by an evening clean-up crew as opposed to regular daytime personnel.
• When introducing waste-handling personnel into the new program, explain that they are handling both types of materials, but will empty recyclables and trash into different containers
• If existing waste removal personnel are not involved with the recycling program, be sure new personnel are made aware of your new program in order to avoid mixing and contaminating materials

Set up a reuse area

If you have available space, set up a reuse area, where reusable items can be stored rather than thrown away. Encourage employees to reuse these items in the workplace or at home. Make reusable items available to customers, or donate them to a school or charitable organization.

Establish a composting or grasscycling program

Grass clippings and other plant prunings make up a surprisingly large portion of California’s waste stream during the growing season. If your business produces green waste, such as plant or lawn clippings, consider composting the materials on site or use the materials as mulch for landscape plants. Or start grasscycling, that is, leave your grass clippings on the lawn when mowing.

Coordinate with neighboring businesses to collect greater amounts of materials and form purchasing coalitions

In many businesses, especially those in malls or groups of stores on the same property, waste management is provided by the lessor, and trash charges are incorporated into the rent. As noted in Step 3, this type of service is shared service and can lead to cost-effective recycling programs, since neighboring businesses can combine recyclables to collect greater amounts of material.

If feasible, you can also work with neighboring businesses, trade associations, or other members of your industry type to lower the price of recycled products by buying in larger quantities.

Step 6: Educating and Motivating Employees

To prevent waste and reduce contamination of the recyclables, employees must be knowledgeable about program guidelines and the benefits of participating.

Announce your program

• An announcement issued by the company’s owner or senior officer regarding the start of a recycling program is a key element in helping to sell the recycling program to employees so they become dedicated and involved in the effort. 
• An environmental policy statement should be included with the announcement, highlighting the benefits of waste reduction (e.g. saving energy and resources and reducing air pollution and the amount of waste that is sent to a landfill) and outlining separation and collection procedures. 
• The policy statement should also explain the economic benefits, including potential for savings on waste prevention and disposal costs. 
• Post it conspicuously and encourage your employees to read it. Or better yet, reduce paper waste and announce the program on your electronic mail system! 
• Some companies give their employees coffee mugs or desktop paper recycling containers emblazoned with company and recycling logos.

Establish a contact for recycling questions and information

Have the recycling coordinator available to answer questions from employees.  The coordinator’s name, phone number, and e-mail address should be included in the memo announcing the program.

Employee training is essential for a successful program

The recycling coordinator should provide initial training for all staff and refresher sessions as necessary. New employees should receive training when hired. Use posters and other training materials to provide information to employees.

Encourage feedback and suggestions from employees

Incentives such as contests and prizes will help ensure success. Give credit and recognition to employees for their efforts.

Follow-up publicity

• Continually publicize the success of your waste reduction efforts and address any shortcomings. Success encourages continued participation.
• Information about quantities of waste prevented and disposal cost savings should be shared with staff.
• Problems such as material contamination or low participation rates should also be shared. Reminders like these will help maintain a successful program.

Step 7: Purchasing with Waste Prevention in Mind

Waste prevention, also known as source reduction, is any action undertaken to eliminate or reduce the amount or toxicity of materials before they enter the municipal solid waste stream. This approach ultimately conserves resources, promotes efficiency, and reduces pollution.

• If your business purchases and uses products that are reusable, durable, and repairable, you will be cutting down on the amount of waste that is produced and landfilled. These products will last longer and save you money in the long run. Urge your suppliers to provide you with these items.
• Remember to also request supplies and materials that are recyclable. If you manufacture a product, keep the recyclability of that product in mind.
• Money saved through avoided disposal costs can be donated to a charity selected by employees, or applied toward employee holiday parties, labor-saving equipment for employees, or the purchase of additional waste reduction equipment.
• Buy products with recycled content. Check out the Directory of Recycled Content Products section of the Recycling Resource Guide for information on local stores that may carry recycled content products.
• The collection of recyclable materials is one step of the three-step process we call recycling. The reprocessing of these materials into new products and the purchase of these new products by consumers and businesses are the essential last two steps in closing the loop of the recycling process. When you buy goods with recycled content, your purchases help to create a demand for materials collected in recycling programs. Business purchases of recycled content products are extremely important to develop and maintain markets for the increasing quantity of materials that will be diverted from landfills.
• Reduce packaging waste by buying products taht contain less packaging whenever possible;
• Ask your vendors to take back shipping containers for reuse or recycling.  

Where to go

• Outside Santa Barbara County (2)

  • Earth911.com – Information Only — 3481 Plano Parkway
  • United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Resource Conservation & Recovery — 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW