Bins That Mean Business: Office Building Waste Management and how to create an Efficient Litter Bin Strategy

July 26, 2023

Waste management often takes a backseat in the hustle and bustle of office life, but its significance cannot be underestimated. A well-designed and efficient workplace needs a well-thought-out and efficient litter strategy. This is essential to keep buildings and premises clean, orderly and have a positive and uncluttered environment.

We sell a large range of litter bins made from various materials and used for different purposes. In a large office building or any other big workplace, you will likely need more than one type of bin across your floors, car parks and outdoor areas. Here we will briefly look into the world of workplace waste management and explore some litter bin strategy that means business.

Understanding the Importance of Office Building Waste Management

Effective waste management in office buildings is essential for maintaining a clean, hygienic, and productive work environment. This is a basic idea that we don't think needs too much explaining. Nobody likes to work in an unclean environment or surrounded by rubbish piling up everywhere. It is unpleasant to look at, but it's also not good for your health. This is why proper waste disposal is so important.

As an employer, you'd want a well-organised waste management system, from your bins and their positioning to their regular emptying. This will contribute to your employees' morale, productivity and job satisfaction, as a clutter-free workspace creates a positive atmosphere.

An office building with efficient waste management sends a positive message to clients, customers, and business partners. It is also a chance to reevaluate your thoughts on sustainability and include this in your waste collection and disposal strategy. By implementing recycling programs and waste reduction initiatives, businesses can save on waste disposal costs and contribute to resource conservation, help achieve net zero goals and support the principles of the circular economy.

Evaluating Your Litter Bin Needs

As a first step, you'd want to examine your litter bin needs. This is a crucial step in developing an effective waste management strategy. Here are some pointers to help you evaluate your litter bin needs:

  1. Assess Waste Generation: Begin by understanding the types and volumes of waste generated in the designated area. Think about general waste, recyclables, and organic waste. Here you should also be thinking about the peak times and days and when waste generation is higher. This can inform your decision when selecting appropriate litter bins, including recycling units.

  2. Identify High-Traffic Areas: Determine the high-traffic areas where people are likely to generate more waste. These locations may include entrances, exits, common areas, cafeterias, and individual seating spaces. Place litter bins strategically in these areas to encourage people to dispose of their rubbish correctly.

  3. Consider the Nature and Use of Space: Evaluate the specific characteristics of the space where the litter bins will be placed. Take into account factors such as the size of the area, how busy it is, whether it is indoors or outdoors, and what your employees use it for. If you have an outdoor eating area, consider placing a recycling unit or a composter for organic waste. If you have a smoking area, cigarette bins are a must.

  4. Account for Special Waste Types: If there are specific waste types like cigarette butts, medical waste, or hazardous materials, ensure you have designated bins to handle them safely and separately from general waste.

  5. Consider Aesthetics and Space Constraints: Balance functionality with aesthetics. Choose litter bins that complement the overall design and style of the space while providing sufficient capacity for waste. Think about materials here – do modern-looking, sleek stainless steel bins fit your image better or are timber-slat bins more you?

  6. Evaluate Maintenance Needs: Lastly, factor in the maintenance requirements of the litter bins. Consider how often the bins will need emptying and cleaning, and choose bins that are easy to service. Also, choose bins made of suitable materials for the specific environment you will place them. Steel and stainless steel are always a solid outdoors choice as they both have good weather protection and last a long time with minimal maintenance.

An efficient litter bin strategy is critical to office building waste management. A well-designed waste management system can significantly contribute to a positive office environment, from enhancing cleanliness and hygiene to supporting sustainable practices.

If you want to discuss your options for litter bins, don't hesitate to get in touch with us. We are always happy to advise our clients on the best solution for them.


Shelter Store Team

Shelter Store is the UK's leading supplier of smoking shelters, canopies, walkways and street furniture. Follow us on LinkedIn.