Where does Waste Management Fit Into Your CSR Policy?
Waste management is the practice of managing the waste produced by your business from creation to its final use. This includes collecting, transporting, disposing and monitoring of all waste materials produced as a result of human activity.
On a business level, this can be an overwhelming task as an unavoidable byproduct of business is waste. However, an effective waste management policy can massively reduce the amount of waste that goes straight to landfill.
Why it is important to have a cohesive CSR policy in your business?
‘CSR’ refers to Corporate Social Responsibility. This, simply put, is a policy that ensures as a business, you are ensuring you are positively affecting those around you. This can range from internal schemes whereby you manage and improve your employee wellbeing to environmental initiatives to ensure your business is Net Zero.
It is standard practice, particularly in recent years, to integrate CSR into your business no matter the size. It reaps a number of benefits from positive brand awareness, more support from the local or global community, investment opportunities and employee engagement.
But how do I include sustainable practices of effective waste management in my CSR policy?
Conduct a waste audit
A waste management audit acts as an evaluation of a company’s waste creation and disposal process. These are crucial to identify areas for improvement in your waste management processes and to develop strategies for how to reduce waste.
By including a commitment to regular waste management audits within your CSR policy, you hold yourself accountable to always learning new opportunities to improve and learn more about waste management.
Read our guide to conducting a waste management audit here.
Saving money, saving resource
As global waste production continues to rise, reaching an estimated 159 tonnes of plastic waste in 2023, the need for innovative solutions becomes more pressing. Automation and AI in waste management not only optimise operational processes but also contribute to cost savings. The increased efficiency of waste collection and recycling, facilitated by these technologies, can help mitigate the economic and environmental impact of the growing waste crisis.
Recycling
It may seem like a no-brainer, but an integral part of waste management is recycling. Commit to keeping waste in the recycling loop by adopting in-house or outsourced solutions. By integrating such services into your CSR policy, you actively contribute to reducing the environmental impact of your business operations.
Acumen are experts in managing in-house and outsourced solutions for businesses to ensure they manage their waste responsibility on time and within budget. One service we offer is total waste management which ensures we work in compliance with the highest environmental principles.
Employee awareness
Employees often contribute significantly to a company’s waste generation. By fostering awareness among your colleagues about the impact of their waste and encouraging responsible behaviour, you can reduce your overall waste output. Including employee awareness initiatives in your CSR policy serves a dual purpose – promoting sustainable practices and providing opportunities for continuous learning and growth within your team.
Consider implementing workshops, training sessions, or informational materials that highlight the importance of waste reduction and responsible disposal. Recognise and reward employees who actively contribute to waste reduction efforts, creating a positive and environmentally conscious workplace culture.
Integrating waste management into your CSR policy is a strategic move towards building a socially responsible and environmentally conscious business. By conducting waste audits, committing to recycling, and raising employee awareness, you not only minimise your environmental footprint but also contribute to a positive corporate image and a sustainable future. Remember, a robust CSR policy is not just a corporate trend; it’s a commitment to making a lasting impact on the world around you.
Contact Acumen today and partner with us as your waste management partner.
