Sort Materials Correctly
Under the law, all businesses, nonprofits, institutions, schools, and multifamily properties must:
- Sort materials into the proper bins (compost, recycling, and garbage)
- Check bins periodically and
- Educate employees, tenants, and contractors about the rules at least annually and during move in and move out (where applicable).
Sort materials correctly
The materials shown below must be recycled and composted under the law. For a full list of materials that can be recycled and composted visit the RE:Source Curbside Directory and select your city.
Monitor & Educate
Inspect both your indoor containers as well as your collection carts and bins to ensure proper sorting. If you notice materials placed incorrectly, be sure to remind employees, contractors, and tenants of the rules. Note that property owners/managers are responsible for proper sorting at their site.
The law requires that at least once a year and during move-in and move-out, owners/managers of businesses, nonprofits, institutions and multifamily properties must inform employees, contractors, such as janitorial staff, and tenants of the law, and how to sort materials properly.
Here are some options for training and ongoing education:
- Share the 5-minute “Recycling & Composting at Work” training video.
- Distribute reminders and/or post a flyer about the law and what goes where.
- Request a virtual or on-site training from our field team, tailored to your needs.
More resources for education and training can be found here.
Need help training your employees, tenants, contractors, and janitors? Our field team can help. Complete this form to request free support.
Additional Resources
Pre-made wall signs
Signs posted at eye level above each bin help staff and customers place materials in the correct containers.
Customized wall signs
The more closely your signs reflect the materials actually generated at your site, the easier it will be for staff and customers to sort correctly.
