Separated recycling in the workplace – one year on 

It’s been a year since the new workplace recycling regulations came into effect, and we want to say a big thank you for your continued efforts to adopt the new recycling system in your office space. 

Thanks to your support, the roll-out of the separated recycling system across the Civic Offices, Dock Offices, and Alps has gone incredibly smoothly. We’ve seen a real improvement in how waste is managed in these buildings, and that’s all down to your efforts to recycle as much as you can and to our wonderful premises staff who empty the bins in some of our buildings. 

As we mark this milestone, here are a few helpful reminders: 

Takeaway coffee cups and sandwich packets

While these may look like card or plastic, they usually have a thin cling film lining to keep the contents fresh. This makes them non-recyclable—so please place them in the black bag/general waste bins. Or even better - bring your own reusable cup when you buy a coffee, and this may save you money too! 

Smelly bins in warm weather

With the temperatures rising, it’s important to keep an eye (and nose!) on the food waste caddies in your office space. If they start to smell, please ensure they’re emptied promptly. 

Confidential paperwork

All confidential paperwork must be disposed of in the confidential waste bins or shredders, not the paper recycling containers. Please double-check before disposing of documents to help avoid potential data breaches. 

If you’re ever unsure about which bin something should go in, don’t forget we have an A-Z waste guide to help point you in the right direction. 

What should I do when the recycling bins are full? 

Civic and Dock Offices: Please contact the Premises Officers once the bins are full, and they will arrange for them to be emptied. Please note that the new recycling bins should not be lined with bags. 

Alps: Staff are responsible for emptying the recycling bins. As and when the bins in your working area are full, please empty into the external bins. 

If you use bags in the recycling containers to make carrying them easier, please empty the contents into the correct outside bins and throw the bags away separately. Please do not put bagged recycling into the outside bins.