Office Recycling Playbook with Low Contamination

Offices often pay too much for waste because of contamination and over-servicing. This playbook keeps it simple and repeatable.

Bin setup that works

• Centralised stations only (no desk bins): general waste + commingled + paper/cardboard.
• Clear examples on signage (photos of your own waste, not stock icons).
• Lined commingled bins; no liquids-add a sink-side sign to remind staff to empty cups first.

30-day rollout

• Week 1: Audit one floor; note common contaminants and average fullness.
• Week 2: Install stations and signage; short team huddles (5-10 mins) on what goes where.
• Week 3: Spot checks twice; share quick wins and photos in team chat.
• Week 4: Adjust pickup frequency based on real fullness; aim for 60-80% fill per lift.

Contamination traps to avoid

• Coffee cups and soft plastics in commingled.
• Food scraps in paper/cardboard.
• Liquids left in bottles/cans-empty first.

Metrics to track

• Contamination rate (target under 5%).
• Average bin fullness at pickup.
• Overflows per month (target zero).

Quick savings

• Drop one pickup if bins average under 60% full for two weeks.
• Add a cardboard-only stream if you get frequent deliveries.
• Switch to smaller liners if bags are half empty; it reduces supply costs.

Need templates? We can share ready-to-print signs and a one-page staff brief. Start with a pilot floor, then roll out building-wide. If you want us to set the schedule, contact us with photos of your current bins.