How To Setup A Recycling Program For:
Hotels And Resorts

July, 2008

A recycling program for hotels and resorts can be challenging since the waste stream tends to include dry materials from offices and guest rooms, wet materials from restaurants and bars and other materials from recreation facilities and public area.

Materials that should be separated and recycled include:

• Aluminum Cans

• Glass Containers
• Newspaper and Magazines
• Plastic Bottles and Jugs
• Cardboard Boxes (Flattened)
• Paper

How to make your program a success:

• Assess the waste being collected throughout your establishment.
• Develop a recycling program based on your findings for each area. Be sure to concentrate on areas producing the highest amounts of waste.
• Ensure all containers are located in easy-access areas for guests and staff and are properly marked for quick identification. Containers with specialized openings (i.e. hole for cans, slot for paper) are critical to maintain clean sorts. Provide in-room containers for guests to directly participate in your program.
• Educate employees on proper recycling procedures. This can be easily accomplished through a staff meeting, posters or memo. Explain the goals of the program and procedures. Be sure to provide recycling information to new employees. Remind employees to keep food waste out of recycling containers and trash. Food waste should be handled separately from trash and recyclables.
• Use your recycling program as a marketing tool at your hotel/resort and make guests aware of your environmentally-friendly approach to waste management. Provide details in your guest information packets.
• Record the volume of recyclables departing the grounds through a log system. With this you will be able to receive accurate compensation for the materials your establishment has recovered.
• Once policies have been established, communicate the program to housekeeping and maintenance staff. Demonstrate how to use each container and where to take all collected materials. Have this staff assist in monitoring the program.

Recycling Areas and Collectables Administrative and Office Areas Office paper, corrugated cardboard, other paper, cans, bottles and toner cartridges. Food Service Areas Glass, metal, cans, plastic containers and corrugated cardboard. Public Areas Newspaper, magazines, bottles and cans.

See the complete line of recycling products, bins, composters and compost containers!