Is Your Business Disposing Of Waste Properly?

Waste is a growing global issue and is only going to get worse due to rising population and commercialism. In fact, the International Finance Corporation reports that the world generates a whopping 2 billion tons of waste per year and is expected to “increase by 70% by 2050.” This clearly shows that most consumers and businesses are not disposing of waste properly. 

The average American tosses out 4.9 pounds of trash per day. However, businesses are the major contributors to the world’s waste issue. The Sierra Club Magazine states that “just five major companies produce nearly 25% of all plastic waste in the world.”

So why is disposing of waste properly important, and what is the solution to these horrific statistics? Let’s explore the effects of improper disposal of waste and what proper waste management really looks like.

Why Disposing of Waste Properly is Important

Sure, hauling items off to landfills is better than illegally dumping waste in unauthorized areas, but not implementing a recycling program is also harmful. All that garbage filling up landfills is still harming the environment and our health. According to an article by the University of Colorado Boulder, waste in landfills can potentially contaminate soil and water, which can lead to health hazards and damage ecosystems. 

The major concern is the air pollution it causes. As the garbage decomposes, it releases methane gases into the atmosphere. Not only that, they report that the creation of landfills has led to the loss of 1,800,000 acres of habitat in the United States. That is why it’s vital that everyone does their part to dispose of waste properly. Businesses can make a major impact by joining a recycling program that will also benefit their company. 

Examples of Improper Waste Disposal

It’s no secret that many businesses and corporations are responsible for things much worse than not recycling. Major organizations have been caught illegally dumping hazardous waste for years. Unfortunately, improper garbage disposal is common among individuals and businesses. Here are some examples of improper waste disposal:

• Burning Items and Trash: Burning waste materials on-site without following environmental regulations can potentially release toxic fumes and pollutants.
• Discarding Medical Waste Improperly: Businesses like clinics and healthcare providers that fail to follow regulations when disposing of medical waste pose health risks.
• Unregulated Waste Storage: Leaving waste piled up outside the business premises without proper containment or protection poses environmental hazards and may violate local ordinances.
• Improper Electronic Disposal: Discarding electronic devices like computers, printers, and phones in regular trash instead of utilizing specialized e-waste recycling programs.
• Flushing Non-Biodegradable Items: Disposing of items like wipes, feminine hygiene products, or plastics in toilets rather than trash receptacles, which can cause plumbing and environmental issues.
• Not Participating in Recycling Programs: Tossing everything in the trash leads to an abundance of waste, missed recycling opportunities, and potential revenue loss from rebate programs. 

The Difference Between Traditional and Sustainable Waste Management

The approach and process between traditional and sustainable waste management differ significantly. Traditional waste management mainly focuses on collecting and disposing of waste in landfills or through incineration. Although some recycling may occur, it is not prioritized, leading to valuable materials being discarded into landfills.

Sustainable waste management companies focus on minimizing waste at the source by promoting sustainable production and consumption practices. Their goal is to reduce waste generation overall. At Sol Recycling, we provide solutions to improper waste disposal by diverting as much waste from landfills as possible. We want businesses to view waste as a valuable resource that can be recycled into new products.

Start Disposing of Waste Properly By Joining a Recycling Program!

If you think sending your garbage off to the landfill is a proper waste management plan—think again.  Although the majority of waste is recyclable, it still ends up in landfills. Developmentalaid.org reports that less than 20% of waste is recycled annually. 

Proper waste management consists of a top-notch customized recycling program that benefits the environment and your business. While each company operates differently, Sol Recycling makes it as easy as possible to stop improper waste disposal by providing solutions that are specific to your company’s needs.

We provide recycling programs to various industries, including medical, aviation, urban, technology, oil & gas, and distribution centers. Our mission is to help small, medium, and national businesses across the USA and Canada to become zero-waste to landfill companies. Our method helps to drastically reduce pollution and save businesses money. It’s a win-win for everyone! Here is how the program works:

Step 1: We visit your business site to collect samples for products.

Step 2: After assessing the samples, we will propose a customized program for your business to achieve zero-waste-to-landfill.

Step 3: We will create material to educate your staff on how to incorporate the zero-waste program.

Step 4: Sol Recycling will be with you every step of the way to implement the customized plan. 

Step 5: Your company will dispose of waste properly and avoid landfills while cutting costs!

Are you ready to reduce waste, save money, and heal the planet? Fill out our online form or call us at 1-888-765-3001 to get a FREE consultation and do your part to stop improper waste disposal!