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There are numerous factors that need to be considered when setting up a new recycling scheme in your company. For example, what types of waste will be recycled, what quantity of waste will be produced, what type of containers will I need, and do these need to adhere to a particular color scheme? With all these different aspects to think about, we may forget to consider the actual environmental impact of the recycling containers themselves.

The majority of recycling containers are manufactured from plastic, and a around 9% of global oil production is currently used in the manufacturing of plastics. Extracting this resource requires vast amounts of energy, and the process of plastic production uses harmful chemicals, whilst emitting pollutants and greenhouse gases. Therefore, despite being created with the intention of benefiting the environment, the manufacturing process of recycling bins has detrimental effects.

Fortunately, there are things that you can do to minimize the negative effects that result from recycling bins…

1) Buy quality products. Look for containers that are well constructed and durable. Recycling containers for commercial use will need to withstand far more wear and tear than those used within homes. Opt for well made products which will last for years.

2) Purchase second-hand containers. The optimal way to reduce environmental impacts in waste management is through re-using existing products. If you can source good quality second-hand containers then this prevents the bins from simply being discarded. It is surprising how many large corporations end up with redundant containers as a result of an altered pilot recycling project.

3) Choose products with recycled plastic content. Many containers are now manufactured with at least some recycled plastic. This reduces the need for extraction of virgin materials and also reduces energy consumption and emissions during the production process. As an example, producing recycled plastic bags uses two thirds less energy and 90% less water compared to ones produced from just virgin materials.

4) Source from nearby locations. Source recycling products that are manufactured in, and distributed from, the same country as your own. Reducing the distance needed to deliver the goods will help reduce the overall carbon footprint of them.
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Ware 4 Recycling Bins Ltd have been promoting cost effective bins, trolleys and waste containers for over 5 years. For more info, visit http://www.ware4.co.uk

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