If you’re looking to improve your business’s recycling practices, understanding commercial recycling is essential. This guide will help you navigate the various waste types, bin sizes, and recycling options available while offering practical tips on reducing waste and recycling more effectively in your workplace.
You’ll learn about key recycling streams such as commingled recycling, paper, cardboard, and food waste, as well as tips for reducing office paper waste and implementing successful recycling programs. With helpful insights on waste minimisation, bin selection, and recycling services tailored to different industries, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to make smarter, more sustainable waste management decisions.
Understanding Commercial Recycling
What Are The Benefits Of Recycling For Businesses?
There are a wide range of financial and environmental benefits of recycling.
By diverting waste from landfills, businesses contribute to conserving natural resources and reducing energy consumption, which are crucial steps in creating a more sustainable future.
In addition, recycling helps to cut down on landfill usage, leading to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions such as methane, which is 28 times more potent than carbon dioxide. These environmental benefits are key to supporting corporate social responsibility and enhancing a company’s reputation.
On the financial side, recycling can also result in cost savings for businesses. By reducing the amount of waste that needs to be disposed of, businesses can lower their waste disposal costs. Finally, recycling often provides businesses with an opportunity to reclaim valuable materials, reducing the need for raw material purchases.
What Are The 5 Rs Of Waste Management?
The 5 R’s of waste management are ‘Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repurpose, and Recycle. By implementing the 5 R’s of waste management, businesses can minimise waste and improve sustainability.
Refuse
The process starts with refusing unnecessary items, such as single-use plastics and excess packaging, to prevent waste before it begins. By making conscious choices about what enters the workplace, businesses can reduce their environmental impact from the outset.
Reduce
Next, reducing and reusing materials further minimises waste. Businesses can cut down on paper use by switching to digital communication and printing double-sided when necessary.
Reuse
Reusing office supplies, such as folders, boxes, and scrap paper, extends their lifespan and reduces the demand for new resources.
Repurpose
Similarly, repurposing involves finding creative ways to give items a second life, such as turning outdated equipment into useful office storage or donating unwanted materials to community organisations.
Recycle
Recycling should be the last step after exhausting all other options. Properly sorting recyclable materials such as paper, cardboard, plastics, and food waste prevents unnecessary landfill disposal.
What Do The Different Recycling Symbols Signify?
Understanding recycling labels and symbols is key to disposing of waste correctly and sustainably. Below, we explain the most common labels and symbols you’re likely to encounter, helping you make informed choices and reduce contamination in your recycling and waste streams.
Australasian Recycling Label (ARL)
The Australasian Recycling Label (ARL) is a standardised labelling system used across Australia and New Zealand, designed to help consumers recycle correctly. Commonly found on product packaging in supermarkets and retail stores, it provides clear instructions on how to dispose of each component of the packaging.
The ARL categorises packaging into four groups:
- Recyclable – can be placed in a recycling bin.
- Conditionally Recyclable – requires a specific action, such as removing a lid, before recycling.
- Not Recyclable – must be disposed of in general waste.
- Check Locally – this item may be recyclable but you’ll need to check. Use the Australian Recycling Label tool to do so.
Plastic Identification Codes (1–7)
Plastic Identification Codes are the numbered triangles found on most plastic items, indicating the type of resin used in their manufacturing.
- PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) – Clear, tough plastic such as soft drink, juice and water bottles.
- HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) – Common white or coloured plastic such as milk containers and shampoo bottles.
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) – Hard, rigid clear plastic such as cordial bottles
- LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) – Soft, flexible plastic e.g. squeezable bottles such as sauce bottles.
- PP (Polypropylene) – Hard but flexible plastic such as microwave ware, takeaway containers, some yoghurt/ ice cream/jam containers, and hinged lunch boxes.
- PS (Polystyrene) – Rigid, brittle plastic such as small tubs and margarine/butter containers.
- Other — All other plastics, including acrylic and nylon. Examples include some sports drink bottles, sunglasses, and large water cooler bottles.
While the numbered triangles identify the type of plastic, they don’t guarantee it can be recycled. Actual recyclability depends on local council facilities, but waste management services like KS Environmental accept plastics 1–7 in our commingled recycling.
General Recycling Symbol
The universal three-arrow triangle suggests an item is recyclable. If you are at home, note that this doesn’t confirm kerbside acceptance. Check the ARL or local council rules to ensure correct disposal.
Compostable Symbols
- Home Compostable Logo (AS5810) – As the name suggests, the Home Compostable logo indicates that the item can be composted at home or in industrial composting facilities.
- Industrially Compostable Logo (AS4736) – The seedling logo signifies that the item is suitable for industrial composting facilities only.
- Biodegradable Products Institute Industrial Compostable – The third logo, also self-explanatory, means the product must be composted at an industrial facility.
The Tidyman
While not related to recycling, the Tidyman symbol is still important to be aware of. It reminds us to dispose of items in the rubbish bin to help prevent littering and keep public spaces clean.
How Much Commercial Recycling Ends Up In Landfills?
According to the most recent National Waste Report (2024) from the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW), Australia’s resource recovery rate for 2022-23 was 66%. This means that approximately 34% of waste still ends up in landfills, including some commercial recycling. However, the report does not provide a specific breakdown of the percentage of commercial recycling that ultimately goes to landfill.
What Percentage Of Commercial Recycling In Australia Is Successfully Processed?
According to the National Waste Report (2024), Australia’s resource recovery rate for 2022-23 was 66%. Of this, around 63% was successfully recycled.
Practical Guidance For Commercial Recycling in Melbourne
What Materials Can And Cannot Be Recycled By Businesses In Melbourne?
Businesses in Melbourne have access to a variety of recycling options to manage different waste streams responsibly. Commonly recycled materials include plastics (1–7), glass, aluminium, steel cans, paper, and cardboard. Many businesses also choose to recycle items such as food waste, e-waste, batteries, and fluorescent tubes to reduce their environmental footprint and divert valuable resources from landfill.
However, not all materials can be recycled through standard commercial recycling services. Items like soft plastics, polystyrene, hazardous waste, and materials contaminated with food or liquids typically require alternative disposal methods to avoid contamination issues. It’s essential for businesses to understand local recycling guidelines to ensure proper sorting and disposal of waste.
What Is General Waste Disposal?
General waste disposal refers to the collection and management of waste materials that cannot be recycled. This typically includes items such as food scraps, contaminated packaging, used cleaning supplies, and non-recyclable office waste. While general waste is destined for landfill, businesses are encouraged to minimise its volume by prioritising waste reduction, reuse, and recycling wherever possible.
Different industries and businesses will have varying needs when it comes to managing general waste. Smaller businesses like cafés, retail shops, and offices may only require smaller bins and fewer collections, while larger operations such as hotels, schools, and manufacturing sites often need higher capacity bins with more frequent servicing. Choosing the right bin size and collection frequency is key to keeping waste management efficient and cost-effective.
What Is Commingled Recycling?
Commingled recycling, also known as mixed recycling, allows businesses to dispose of various recyclable materials in a single bin, simplifying the recycling process and making it more convenient. This system helps ensure that valuable resources like paper, glass, aluminium, and plastic containers are collected efficiently and diverted from landfill, supporting both environmental sustainability and cost-effective waste management.
To make commingled recycling effective, businesses should be aware of what materials are accepted. Commonly recyclable items include cardboard, office papers, newspapers, aluminium and steel cans, plastic containers marked with identification codes 1–7, and glass bottles. Contaminants such as food scraps, soft plastics, polystyrene, and electronic waste should be kept out of these bins to avoid disrupting the recycling process.
What Do The Different Coloured Bins Represent In Melbourne?
In Melbourne, different coloured bins represent specific waste streams, following the Standards Australia colour coding introduced in 2006:
- General Waste – Dark green or black body with a red lid
- Mixed (Commingled) Recycling (glass, plastic, metal, and paper combined) – Dark green or black body with a yellow lid
- Green Waste/Organics – Dark green or black body with a lime green lid
- Food Waste – Dark green or black body with a burgundy lid (though lime green is also commonly used)
- Paper and Cardboard Recycling – Dark green or black body with a blue lid
This standardised system helps businesses and households separate waste correctly, improving recycling efficiency.
Managing Specific Waste Types and Materials
Is Plastic Considered Commercial Waste?
Yes, plastic is considered commercial waste when generated by a business during its operations. This includes items like plastic packaging, containers, bottles, and office supplies. While many plastics can be recycled through standard recycling services, others, such as soft plastics or contaminated materials, may need to be disposed of as general waste. Depending on the type and quantity of plastic waste, there may be alternative recycling options available. It’s always best to consult with a waste management provider to determine the most suitable disposal or recycling solution for your business.
What Is The Best Way For Businesses To Dispose Of Scrap Metal?
Proper disposal of scrap metal is important for both environmental and operational efficiency. Businesses can manage their metal waste responsibly by using dedicated recycling services for scrap metal. These services often provide specialised bins designed for the collection of various types of metal waste, from offcuts and sheet metal to broken equipment and structural materials. By diverting scrap metal from landfill, businesses can contribute to resource conservation and a circular economy.
Once collected, scrap metal is transported to a recycling facility, where it is sorted, processed, and repurposed into new materials. This process ensures that valuable metals are recovered and reused rather than going to waste. Businesses generating scrap metal regularly, or those requiring a one-off collection can benefit from tailored advice on the most suitable bin type and collection frequency for their needs.
How Can Businesses Recycle Wood And Timber?
Businesses can recycle wood and timber waste through dedicated collection services. These services typically offer specialised bins designed for the collection of large volumes of wood and timber. Once collected, the materials are taken to a disposal site where they are processed appropriately.
Can Businesses Recycle Polystyrene Foam?
Yes, businesses can recycle polystyrene foam, though it typically requires special handling as it is not suitable for standard recycling bins. Polystyrene foam is often collected separately as loose rubbish and processed through a partner facility.
What Does E-Waste Recycling Involve?
E-waste recycling involves the disposal and responsible recycling of electronic items such as televisions, computers, mobile phones, and appliances. In Victoria, e-waste is banned from landfills as of 1 July 2019. For businesses, waste management and recycling companies provide e-waste recycling solutions, including bins ranging from 120L to 660L, as well as larger lockable containers for sensitive items. Once full, they arrange collection and ensure the e-waste is properly recycled.
Accepted e-waste items include computers, laptops, mobile phones, tablets, printers, fax machines, keyboards, mice, accessories, computer monitors, TVs, circuit boards, and internal parts.
Non-accepted e-waste items include large household appliances, hazardous or flammable materials, batteries (unless specified), wet or contaminated items, pressurised containers, and organic waste.
How Should Aerosol Cans And Spray Paint Cans Be Disposed Of?
Aerosol cans and spray paint cans should not be disposed of in regular recycling bins, as they are considered hazardous waste. Due to the pressurised contents and potential for harmful substances, these items must be disposed of through an EPA-approved prescribed waste removal service. Aerosol and spray paint cans cannot be recycled through standard methods.
Can Coffee Cups Be Recycled?
Coffee cups cannot be recycled through regular recycling streams due to their unique construction. The plastic or wax lining inside the cups is designed to prevent leakage and to withstand hot liquids, which makes them unsuitable for typical recycling processes. This lining often leads to contamination in standard recycling facilities. As a result, coffee cups are generally removed during the recycling process and sent to landfill.
Some programs, like Simply Cups, offer specialised recycling for coffee cups and lids. These programs collect and process coffee cups separately from regular recycling, ensuring they are properly recycled. Simply Cups has expanded collection points across Melbourne, making it easier for consumers to dispose of their cups responsibly.
The most sustainable solution is to use a reusable cup, which eliminates the need for disposable cups altogether. If that’s not possible, participating in coffee cup recycling programs such as Simply Cups is the next best option. If no recycling program is available, it’s important to dispose of the cups in general waste to avoid contaminating the recycling stream.
Can Shredded Paper Be Placed In The Recycling Bin?
Shredded paper can be recycled, but it requires special care due to its small and lightweight nature. When paper is shredded, the tiny pieces are more likely to slip through the machinery at recycling facilities. This can cause contamination and result in the entire recycling batch being rejected or not properly processed. As a result, it’s essential to handle shredded paper correctly to ensure it gets recycled properly.
The best practice for recycling shredded paper is to place it in a dedicated paper or cardboard recycling bin. Some recycling services may even offer special collection options for shredded paper to prevent contamination. By following these steps, businesses and individuals can ensure that their shredded paper is processed correctly and doesn’t end up causing issues in the recycling system.
How Can Fluorescent Tubes Be Disposed Of?
Fluorescent tubes should never be sent to landfill, as they contain mercury, a toxic substance that can harm the environment. When disposed of improperly, this mercury can leak into the soil and water, posing serious environmental and health risks. To ensure safe disposal, it’s important to recycle fluorescent tubes through proper channels.
At the recycling facility, the fluorescent tubes are carefully processed, and the materials within them, including glass, aluminium, phosphor powder, and mercury, are extracted and reused. This process helps to reduce the environmental impact and conserve valuable resources. By recycling fluorescent tubes responsibly, businesses can contribute to a more sustainable waste management system.
Best Recycling Practices for Businesses
What Are Commercial Waste Bins Used For?
Commercial waste bins are essential for businesses of all types, as they are specifically designed to handle the variety of waste generated in commercial environments. Whether it’s from offices, retail spaces, industrial sites, or other business operations, these bins provide a convenient and efficient way to manage waste disposal. By offering bins for a wide range of waste types, businesses can ensure they are disposing of materials responsibly while meeting their waste management needs.
How Many Litres Does A Standard Commercial Bin Hold?
The capacity of a standard commercial bin depends on the type of waste being disposed of. Smaller bins, such as the 120L size, are ideal for food waste, while larger bins are more suitable for bulkier materials like cardboard. For businesses generating significant amounts of cardboard or other large items, options range from 660L bins to 4.5m³ cage bins designed to handle large volumes.
How Much Are Commercial Bin Tip Fees In Melbourne?
Commercial bin tip fees in Melbourne are directly impacted by the Victorian landfill levy, which is set to increase again in the coming years. As of July 2024, the levy for metropolitan industrial waste is $132.76 per tonne, with a planned rise to $167.90 per tonne in FY 2026. These increases are part of a broader initiative to discourage reliance on landfills and to fund vital environmental programs aimed at reducing waste and promoting sustainability.
The higher landfill levy has led to increased disposal costs, which are now reflected in the adjusted rates businesses face for waste collection. With these changes, businesses need to consider the impact on their waste management budgets. To help manage costs effectively, businesses are encouraged to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill by increasing recycling efforts and reducing overall waste production.
What Are The Best Practices For Recycling Properly?
Recycling is an essential part of waste management, but to make it effective, it’s important to do it correctly. While recycling helps keep materials out of landfill and often uses less energy than producing new items from scratch, it should still come after reducing and reusing wherever possible.
Here are some best recycling practices to ensure your efforts are effective:
- Understand what can and can’t be recycled — Familiarise yourself with which materials are acceptable for recycling and which ones aren’t to avoid contamination in the recycling stream.
- Flatten containers — Flattening bottles, cans, and cardboard reduces space in recycling bins, helping to optimise collection and processing.
- Set up clear, well-labelled recycling systems — Make sure your recycling bins are clearly marked and easily accessible to encourage proper sorting by employees or household members.
- Check recycling codes — Pay attention to plastic recycling codes (1-7) to ensure you’re placing the right materials in the right bins.
- Involve your team — Educate employees or family members about the importance of recycling and make sure they are aware of proper recycling procedures.
How Can Waste Be Minimised In The Workplace?
Minimising waste in the workplace is a key step towards creating a more sustainable environment. By implementing effective waste reduction strategies, businesses can reduce their environmental impact while also boosting efficiency and saving costs. It starts with understanding and applying the 5 R’s of Recycling — refuse, reduce, reuse, repurpose, and recycle. By embedding these principles into daily practices, workplaces can make a significant difference in their sustainability efforts. Here are some practical tips to help minimise waste in your workplace:
1. Refuse unnecessary items — Avoid single-use plastics and disposable products that contribute to waste.
2. Reduce paper consumption — Embrace digital alternatives to reduce printing and paper waste in the office.
3. Reuse packaging and office supplies — Reuse materials like boxes, envelopes, and office supplies whenever possible.
4. Repurpose items — Get creative with reusing materials or repurposing items in the office, such as turning old containers into storage solutions.
5. Recycle effectively — Ensure all recyclable materials are properly sorted and placed in the correct recycling bins.
6. Be mindful of purchases — Avoid overbuying and opt for durable, long-lasting items that require fewer replacements.
7. Cut down on excessive packaging — Choose products with minimal or recyclable packaging and buy in bulk where possible.
8. Implement food waste recycling programs — Set up systems for employees to properly dispose of food scraps and encourage composting.
9. Promote sustainability initiatives — Encourage employees to adopt reusable water bottles, coffee cups, and other sustainable practices.
How Can Paper Waste Be Reduced In The Office?
By being mindful of paper use and making small adjustments to everyday practices, businesses can significantly reduce their environmental impact. Practical tips to help minimise paper waste in the workplace include:
- Print double-sided – When possible, choose double-sided printing to reduce paper consumption.
- Use print preview – Check document formatting before printing to ensure no errors and avoid reprints.
- Print only what you need – Print only the pages you need from large documents to minimise paper waste.
- Repurpose one-sided paper – Set up a tray for paper printed on one side and use it for scrap paper or notes.
- Review mailing lists – Opt for electronic distributions instead of paper ones, especially for marketing materials like brochures and flyers.
- Encourage digital alternatives – Consider whether a document truly needs to be printed or if it can be viewed or shared digitally instead.
- Implement a paper recycling system – Set up designated bins for paper recycling and encourage employees to recycle correctly.
How Do Businesses Recycle Organic Waste In Melbourne?
In Melbourne, businesses can recycle organic waste through commercial waste management services (generally food waste). Commercial food waste recycling helps divert food scraps from landfills, reducing pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. The process involves converting organic waste into high-quality compost through an in-vessel composting method.
Businesses can start their food waste-to-compost programs by ensuring only acceptable items are placed in food waste bins, such as:
- Fruit and vegetable scraps
- Rice, pasta, bread and cake
- Coffee grounds
- Plate scrapings, meat, fish and leftovers
- Eggs/eggshells
- Flowers
Unacceptable items include:
- Plastics
- Alfoil
- Straws
- Food handler gloves
- Glass
- Cooking oils
- Metals (i.e. cans)
- Chux cloths
- Tea bags
If you’re looking for support with your recycling efforts, KS Environmental offers a variety of recycling services tailored to businesses of all sizes. From commingled and paper recycling to food waste solutions, we’re happy to help you find the right fit. Contact us to find out more.
