Recent statistics released by the US EPA calculate that US residents, businesses and institutions generate more than 251 million tons to solid municipal waste (SMW) each year.  That’s a lot of trash!  Most of what goes into the solid municipal waste stream are materials that are recyclable.  Paper is the largest category of waste, at 34% or over 85 million tons.  Contrary to popular thinking, paper does not degrade in a landfill.  Once buried in a modern landfill, nothing degrades, not even food.   That is why recycling programs can make such a positive impact on the environment, by reducing the amount of waste that goes to landfills and by reducing the need for virgin raw materials such as paper or plastic.

The first step in implementing a recycling program is to do a waste assessment.  This process will help you identify the types of waste your facility generates and the opportunities to reduce and recycle that waste.  Rubbermaid Commercial Products offers Dade Paper’s customers assistance in performing this assessment.  Once the assessment is complete, your Dade Paper and Rubbermaid representatives will help customize a recycling program that fits your needs.  An effective recycling program includes setting goals, establishing collection practices, communicating to participants and ongoing measurement. 

There are many benefits of a well-planned and implemented recycling program.  To get started call your Dade Paper representative and schedule your waste assessment today.