Why Source Separate?

Methods recycling system is centred around source separation - sorting your waste by material type before it is processed. Why is this important? (whether you have Method bins or not).

Reduce Contamination

When waste is source separated different types of recyclables aren’t going to contaminate each other. For example, paper and glass are two easily recyclable materials - however, a smashed bottle can contaminate an entire container of paper and it will all end up in landfill.

When waste is source separated it is less likely that these instances will occur thus ensuring your recyclables are processed.

Maintain Resource Integrity

When we reduce contamination and source separate recyclables we maintain the integrity of the materials and reduce downcycling. Downcycling is the process where recycled materials can not be used for products of the same quality, this reduces the amount of time the materials are able to stay in use. Meaning they meet the landfill sooner.

Help to Identify Problematic Materials

Every day you approach the recycling bins in your office and see innumerable single-use coffee cups in the landfill bin. This is a great way to identify materials and products that are getting wasted frequently. Providing you with the opportunity to address it yourself, or within the organisation, such as providing reusable coffee cups to all new starters.

Contribute to the Circular Economy

The circular economy sees materials kept in use for as long as possible. Such as, Flight Plastics in Wellington, who recycle PET plastic to make RPET containers, which are then able to be recycled again at the end of their life. By source separating you are keeping these materials in use, and sending them back for reprocessing.

Less Waste Goes to Landfill

When we are facilitating the circular economy less waste is going to landfill. A source separated recycling program can be easier for users to know where to place their recyclables when it is well communicated and maintained. Canva are constantly working towards reducing the amount of waste going to landfill, we worked with them on these clear signs for their recycling stations so that they can achieve greater diversion.

Further, fewer recyclables have to be sent to landfill due to contamination of other recyclables or waste.

Ready to Begin?

Are you ready to start source separating your waste? Get in touch with one of our knowledgeable BDMs here to find the solution for your workplace.

Find out more about the behaviour changing bins