In many ways it is still amazing that we are debating sustainability and climate change. Even if the science wasn’t there, recycling and carbon reduction represent progress and global-conscious thought. Recycling isn’t a new concept, but it is one of change. It needs to become second nature.
However, the onus to recycle does belong to the end user. It wouldn’t matter what any product was packaged in if the customer was throwing it over their shoulder and leaving it gathering rain and dirt on the ground. How do we create a culture where recycling is second nature?
Provide the path of least resistance
It first falls to the packaging designers and manufacturers to create a product that is somehow easier to recycle than to thoughtlessly discard. That means making recycling a matter of convenience. If special and complicated processes are needed to recycle packaging, then often the end user might take the path of least resistance.
Local authorities and councils do their best to police this through cycles of refuse collection. By using materials that the local authorities agree can be recycled at the kerbside is the first step to making sure that the products are recycled properly. No driving to recycling plants on their days off, no need to pay councils an additional collection fee for your waste. The new path of least resistance might be as simple as providing a product that can be left for the bin men each week.
Recycling communication and business support
It is also about creating a habit. Businesses may choose to use ethical packaging suppliers to help with their sustainability goals, but they are all for nought if their customers dispose of their waste improperly. This might not be a direct concern of the businesses in questions, but they have the perfect platform to support recycling through their comms.
They could use their email, socials, and even printed items to remind their companies that they use ethical packaging. With each order, their online receipt only needs to remind their customer how to best dispose of the packaging, and you begin by creating a habit. A small leaflet with each order describing the impact proper disposal will have on the environment might be enough to remind an individual to do the right thing.
The power of positive feedback
It’s not that people need a pat on the back for their efforts, but when they see tangible results, they feel empowered. We don’t need to lean into guilt or corporate finger wagging, not when we can show them the impact they have made.
Companies can continue to use their packaging and comms to:
• Talk about the carbon savings made by recycling.
• Talk about the reduced landfill waste.
• Talk about the amount of marine life saved by proper recycling.
• Or talk about the tress saved per order.
If they know they have contributed impactfully to the betterment of the environment, they will be more inclined to keep recycling.
Culture makes it stick
If something is made rewarding and easy, then people will jump on board. But recycling isn’t just a pyramid scheme selling small dopamine hits, it is a habit. Most days people just want to do the right thing; we just have to make it easier for them. We need to make it part of our business culture.
If you are looking for more ideas on how to support environmental responsibility in your business, then feel free to contact us.
To discuss how Goggleboxes can be kerbside recycled conveniently by your customers contact us today on 01536 747766 or email sales@goggleboxes.com with your enquiry.
Share this post: