Services > Multi-Family Community Recycling> Step By Step Guide

STEP BY STEP GUIDE TO STARTING A
MULTI-FAMILY COMMUNITY RECYCLING PROGRAM

This section will recap and highlight the most important steps to take in the design and implementation of a multi-family community recycling & waste reduction program. If you follow these steps, it will increase the chances that your program will be a success.

The Early Planning

• Read this guide
• Use the Waste Assessment Worksheet attached to make a visual estimate of what’s in your garbage and determine what can be reduced, reused, and recycled.
• Network with other owners/managers to gather information and share ideas.
• Working with BFI, identify all containers or carts that will be removed or relocated and when and where the new recycling containers will be placed.
• Create an updated site map showing the new locations of all containers for garbage and recycling.
  

Planning For The Kickoff

• Create a name for your program.
• Organize your outreach and communications plans.
• Create a flyer announcing the kickoff of your recycling program.
• Deliver flyers to residents and post them in common areas.
• Schedule an informational meeting with your residents at least 2-weeks prior to kickoff.
• One week prior to kickoff, distribute a recycling kit to residents.
  
  This kit is provided to you by BFI and includes:
  
  1. One 5-gallon in-home recycling receptacle with instructional decal. This will provide for easy collection and transport of recyclables from home to waste enclosure. Remember that the supply of in-home receptacles is unlimited for your residents. Please contact BFI to have additional containers delivered.
  2. Instructional recycling and yard-waste fliers that indicate what is recyclable and what belongs in the trash.
  3. A “Salinas Recycles” magnet that will nicely hold fliers to the refrigerator.

• Post signs and announcements and make sure they remain posted.
• Clearly label the carts and bins.
• Be available to answer residents’ questions. Don’t forget BFI representatives are available to speak with your residents.
• Educate your office and maintenance staff as equally as your residents
• Complete the educational assessment form if you require any additional educational materials or have comments for BFI.

Follow Up

• One week after kick-off, distribute a program update and encourage them to continue to make a difference by recycling
• Four weeks after kickoff perform another Waste Assessment in order to see how your program is working.
• Establish an ongoing outreach program for residents.
• Create a recycling information packet that new residents receive with their move-in kit.
• Continue to work with BFI to improve the recycling program.
• Work with other contractors such as landscapers, construction companies, and delivery services to reduce the waste generated on your property.
• Periodically check that signs are still posted and easy to read.
• Continue to network with other owners/managers to share ideas about recycling.