How businesses can focus on recycling

Work with local governments

Businesses and local governments share an important role in building effective recycling systems. Coordinating with your community’s recycling provider or municipal program can improve service efficiency, expand accepted materials, and ensure proper processing.

EGLE encourages partnerships that align business recycling needs with local infrastructure. This can include shared collection services, public-private investments, and collaborative education efforts. Learn how to connect with your local program and identify opportunities to strengthen regional recycling capacity.

Establish internal policies and practices

Establishing strong internal recycling policies is the foundation of an effective business recycling program. This can include conducting waste audits, standardizing recycling procedures, training staff, and setting material diversion goals.

EGLE provides guidance and tools to help businesses evaluate their waste streams and implement best practices. Resources also include green purchasing strategies that prioritize recycled content and reduce packaging waste, helping businesses close the loop within their own operations.

Market and message your business

Communicating your recycling and sustainability efforts can strengthen brand reputation, engage employees, and meet customer expectations. Clear messaging also helps ensure materials are recycled correctly within your facilities.

EGLE offers communication resources and campaign alignment opportunities that businesses can use to promote recycling initiatives. Learn how to craft effective internal signage, customer-facing messaging, and sustainability reporting that reflects your organization’s impact.