
Waste Best Practices
Review the practices below and ask yourself:
Are we already doing this?
Could this be a future improvement?
These proven strategies help businesses reduce waste and operate more sustainably:
Recycling Program – Make recycling easy with clear labels and accessible bins for paper, plastic, metal, and glass.
Food Scrap Composting – Compost leftover food to reduce landfill waste and support healthy soil.
Waste Diversion Tracking – Recycle everything possible—electronics, ink cartridges, packaging—and track how much waste you divert.
Reusable or Compostable Dishware – Replace single-use items with reusable or certified compostable alternatives.
E-Steward Electronics Recycling – Recycle electronics responsibly through certified E-Steward facilities.
Reusable Packaging – Reuse packing materials like bubble wrap and peanuts or take them to collection sites like loosefillpackaging.com.
Work with Suppliers – Ask vendors to use reusable packaging or take back containers to reduce waste.
Repair & Reuse Shipping Materials – Extend the life of pallets, crates, and boxes by repairing and reusing them.
Proper Hazardous Waste Disposal – Store and dispose of paint, solvents, and cleaners safely and in compliance with regulations.
Donate or Recycle Electronics – Donate working electronics or recycle them properly to keep toxic waste out of landfills.
Green Cleaning Products – Use third-party certified green cleaners to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals.
Recycle Fluorescent Bulbs – These contain mercury and must be stored and recycled properly.
Hire EcoBiz-Certified Contractors – Choose landscapers or service providers certified for environmentally friendly practices.
Annual Chemical Review – Each year, review chemicals used in your business. Replace harmful ones with safer alternatives whenever possible.
Let’s Reflect on Waste
What Are You Doing Now?
List your current waste-reduction efforts: recycling, composting, reusing packaging, working with suppliers, etc.
Have you received support (like a BizRecycling Grant) or are you interested in applying for one?
How Do You Feel About Your Efforts?
Are you proud of your progress?
What could be improved?
Who’s Involved?
Is waste management shared across your team?
Do clients or customers contribute to your waste?
Are you fully in control, or do you have limitations (e.g., landlord or shared space)?
What’s Next?
What are your future goals for reducing waste?
Are there programs, technologies, or habits you want to start?
What’s holding you back?
300_edited.png)