7 Ways to Make Recycling More Accessible in the Office

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword anymore — it’s become a key pillar of modern business culture. From startups to corporate giants, more and more companies are putting real effort into reducing their environmental impact.

One of the most straightforward (and cost-effective) ways to do that? Upping your recycling game.

But let’s be honest: office recycling often falls flat.

Maybe the bins are hard to find. Maybe no one knows what actually goes in them. Or maybe, worst of all, they’re right next to the trash, and nobody really knows the difference.

The good news? Making recycling more accessible at work isn’t hard — it just takes a little intentionality.

Accessible recycling doesn't just help you check the “green goals” box — it boosts efficiency, keeps the workspace clean, and even improves employee morale.

Learn seven easy, practical ways to make recycling more intuitive, convenient, and successful in your office.

1. Place Recycling Bins Where People Need Them

This might sound obvious, but it’s one of the most overlooked tactics. If your recycling bin is hidden in the breakroom closet or buried behind the printer, chances are people won’t use it.

Accessibility starts with location. Bins should be within arm’s reach of where waste is actually generated — think next to desks, by the coffee station, near printers, and in common areas.

Better yet? Pair recycling bins with trash bins everywhere. People are far more likely to recycle if it’s just as easy as tossing something in the trash.

Remember: convenience = compliance!

2. Use Clear, Easy-to-Read Labels (With Pictures!)

Let’s face it: nobody wants to stand there Googling, “Can I recycle this coffee cup?”

Make recycling idiot-proof with clear, well-labeled bins. Use big, bold signs that include both words and images.

Even better, use color-coded bins (e.g., blue for recycling, black for trash, green for organics) to reduce confusion even further.

Pro tip: Make the signage specific to your local recycling program. What’s recyclable in one city might not be in another — especially when it comes to plastics. A cheat sheet goes a long way!

3. Start a “Green Team” or Sustainability Committee

Want your recycling efforts to really stick? Get buy-in from your people.

Creating a small team of eco-minded employees can help keep the momentum going. This crew can take the lead in educating coworkers, auditing bins, organizing challenges, and even suggesting new ways to improve recycling workflows.

This doesn’t need to be a huge commitment — just a few motivated team members who care about keeping the office green.

Bonus: it boosts engagement and gives your team something positive to rally around.

4. Educate Employees With Short, Fun Training

If people don’t know how to recycle properly, even the best system will fall apart. Take the time to run short training sessions — ideally, when new hires join or as a refresher for the whole team.

Keep it simple and upbeat. Maybe even throw in a quiz with a prize to keep things light and memorable.

Want to go the extra mile? Hang a fun infographic in the kitchen or break room that explains what goes where.

Education leads to consistency — and that means fewer recyclables ending up in the landfill.

5. Minimize Single-Use Items Around the Office

The fewer disposables you bring into the office, the less waste you have to manage in the first place. Encourage employees to use reusable mugs, plates, and water bottles instead of paper and plastic.

Stock the breakroom with durable dishware and install a dishwasher if you can swing it. Not only does this cut down on waste, but it also saves money in the long run.

And let’s be honest — coffee just tastes better out of a real mug anyway.

6. Offer Incentives for Going Green

A little friendly competition never hurt anyone! Try launching a monthly “Green Office Challenge” where departments compete to recycle the most or generate the least waste.

Offer small prizes — free lunch, extra break time, bragging rights — to keep people motivated.

Even simple acknowledgments, like a shoutout in the company newsletter or a “Recycling Rockstar” badge, can go a long way in encouraging people to stay mindful of their habits.

7. Partner With a Local Recycling Provider You Can Trust

At the end of the day, your recycling program is only as strong as the company hauling it away.

A reliable local recycling provider not only makes pickups easy and on time — they can also help you identify areas of improvement, set up the right bins, and provide resources to keep your team on track.

When you partner with a provider that actually cares about sustainability (not just hauling trash), you’re setting your office up for success.

Need Commercial Recycling Services? Talk to The Trash Man!

At The Trash Man, we’re more than just trash talkers — we’re your partners in building a cleaner, greener office. Whether you’re just starting to think about recycling or looking to take your current system to the next level, our team is here to help.

We offer recycling pickups, bin delivery, customized plans, and support for businesses of all sizes in Webster City, Iowa, and the surrounding areas. When you work with us, you get reliable service, straightforward communication, and a commitment to sustainability that matches your own.

Ready to clean up your office’s recycling habits? Call The Trash Man today at 515-832-5516 or contact us online to schedule your recycling services and see how easy it can be to go green at work!