Setting up a Zone

Six steps to setting up a Recycle Zone

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Frequently asked questions

What are the benefits of setting up a Recycle Zone?

Setting up a “Recycle Zone” is a great way of helping your customers to help the environment and recycle their empty drinks packaging whilst they are out and about. It will help to divert valuable resources away from landfill and encourage customers to recycle more. There can also be financial benefits – depending on what type of packaging is collected – and how much.

How much is it going to cost?

Setting up a Recycle Zone doesn’t have to cost a fortune. It will depend upon how many recycling units you need, and what type eg for internal or external use, with a general waste section or not. You will also need to ensure the back-of-house processes are in place to keep the recycling material separate from general waste and to ensure your waste contractor is able to collect your recycling. It is also important to consider how to communicate the launch of a “Recycle Zone” to your staff (especially cleaning contractors) as well as customers. In the long run there could also be financial benefits to you, depending on the type and amount of recycling materials you collect.

How much time will it take from start to finish?

You will need to order or refurbish your units and arrange for the collection of the recyclables if your waste contractor is not currently doing this. You will also need to make sure that everyone knows that there are now recycling facilities available, plan a launch date and launch the project. This will take a little time at first but once the scheme is launched, it virtually runs itself. From placing an order for units, to launching the project typically takes between 6-8 weeks

Do I need any special equipment?

You will need to ensure that you have units clearly marked with the recyclables you want people to put into them. It’s a good idea to have signs or posters displayed throughout the building so that everyone knows exactly where your Recycle Zone is located. You will also need to make sure that you discuss your plans with your cleaning staff and your waste contractor to ensure that the reclyclate collected is disposed of in the correct manner and kept segregated from the general waste

How do I begin?

We have put together a toolkit to help you to plan and organise your Recycle Zone. This should answer any questions you have about planning and organising your zone but if you have any further queries, contact us and we will do our best to help you.

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