Can The Mandatory Recycling Ordinance in Miami Beach Actually Save Your Business Money?

There is some controversy surrounding the newly enacted mandatory recycling legislature for commercial properties and businesses in Miami Beach. Some business owners feel that the government is overstepping its bounds by requiring that they separate recyclables like glass, plastic, cardboard, and aluminum from the rest of the solid waste that leaves their business. There are others who feel that the mandate is a hassle because requiring their employees to separate recyclables increases labor costs. The most pressing question many business owners are asking is this: How can a mandatory policy that involves the policing of my company's trash and fines for violations possibly save my business money?

The way the ordinance is written may be what is contributing to so much fear and confusion about recycling in Miami Beach. According to the ordinance, inspectors may, after presenting their credentials, enter the business and perform an inspection in order to determine whether the business is recycling the minimum requirement of it's refuse. If found not to be compliant with the new legislature, the business can be issued a violation and fined $350.00 for the first offense, $500.00 for the second offense, $1,000.00 for the third offense, and a whopping $5,000.00 for each subsequent offense. With the threat of fines like those mentioned, it's no wonder business owners in Miami Beach are biting their nails over the new ordinance, which took effect in June of 2013.

To those who know much about the waste and recycling industry, this new mandate could turn out to be a blessing in disguise for businesses in Miami Beach. When the team at Global Trash Solutions first learned of the new mandate from a client who owns several restaurants in Miami Beach this past summer, we were excited to help him ensure compliance with all of the new recycling laws. We  helped our client customize stickers for lobby trash cans so customers could participate in source separation. 

Global Trash Solutions is no stranger to mandatory recycling; we have hundreds of clients in places like Seattle and San Francisco, where mandatory recycling includes not only bottles, cans, mixed paper, and cardboard, but also organics and food items. We love helping our clients recycle, not only because it is good for the planet, but because landfill diversion always has a positive financial impact on businesses that participate. Recyclables are commodities, and we recognize that salvaging a commodity from the trash can add value in many ways if you have the right connections. If you are confused or bewildered by the recycling mandates in your area, please call us today for assistance. We are here to help.   



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