Waste sorting at work: make it simple and sustainable

A good waste management approach does not start with the waste bin itself, but with understanding what your organisation needs.

µWhich waste streams occur most often? How much waste is generated? Where does it arise? How much does disposal cost? And how can you make sure the system is easy for people to use in their daily life?

According to Kim Berkvens, Product Manager at BOMA, this analysis is sometimes underestimated. A waste project involves more than simply placing a few new bins. It affects purchasing, cleaning, waste processing, costs and the everyday behaviour of employees.

Her advice: "Standardise where possible, but use tailored solutions where needed. And don't forget: informing and raising awareness are essential."

Within your organisation, use the same sorting logic as much as possible, while taking the function of each space into account. A busy staff restaurant has different requirements from an office floor, entrance hall or warehouse.

When we think about sustainability, we quickly focus on the material a product is made from. That is important, but it is not the whole story.

A sustainable waste bin should first and foremost remain useful for a long time. Choose a solution that is sturdy, matches the amount of waste produced and can adapt when your waste streams change.

Look at the complete system too. A waste bag that is too large leads to unnecessary material use, while a bin that is too small results in more frequent emptying rounds. The simple rule therefore still applies: choose the right bag for the right bin.

The BOMA range, for example, includes HD waste bags made from recycled material. By matching the bag, bin and waste volume correctly, you can reduce material use without making everyday work more difficult.

Some waste stations are also available with inner bins. These can be made from recycled plastic, metal or even cardboard. By using these inner bins for certain waste streams, such as paper and cardboard, you may not need a waste bag at all, which creates an additional saving.

Sustainable waste management also starts before something ends up in the bin. Preventing waste and using materials for longer is still better than having to sort them afterwards.

A few simple agreements can make a big difference in practice:

• Keep the same order everywhere. Place the different waste streams in the same position at every location and preferably put residual waste last.

• Use clear colours and pictograms. Make it immediately visible what belongs where. Stickers with recognisable examples are especially useful for waste items that often cause confusion.

• Prevent waste wherever possible. When purchasing, choose reusable alternatives, less packaging and materials that last longer. What you do not throw away does not need to be sorted.

• Involve the entire organisation. Explain why you are changing the sorting system and listen to employees and cleaning teams. They quickly notice where bins are too small or where the system causes confusion.

This feedback allows you to improve your approach step by step. Waste sorting is not a one-off project, but a system that can be adjusted regularly.

Technology may also help in the future. Think of sensors that measure fill levels or weight, or systems that monitor waste streams. Not every organisation needs these applications, but they can become useful when you want to measure and optimise waste streams more accurately.