When it comes to helping our planet and the environment, most of us know that recycling is one of the best things we can do. But will the remedy for our waste problems in America come about through recycling alone? The answer is a simple “no”. The reasons why recycling alone will not solve all our waste problems are many. Producers and manufacturers have an obligation to their customers and the world to absolutely ensure their products are being recycled by doing things such as partnering and working in concert with waste management institutions. This is the only way real change will take effect to the degree that our planet’s environmental waste crisis demands it. Corporations must take the ultimate responsibility for going green by planning for recycling solutions for all their products before distribution and consumption.
This issue has, in recent months and years, been effectively brought into the discussion by a non-profit organization called TCE (Texas Campaign For The Environment) along with other green ambassadors. TCE basically says that manufacturers have to take responsibility for the full life cycle of their products. TCE states that waste must be eliminated at the source and the current “produce it, consume it, toss it out” system must be redesigned in order to ensure sustainability and the long term health of our planet. This is completely logical if you really think about it. There is no real accountability in our current system, as so many producers leave the responsibility for recycling in the hands of consumers. Now of course, you would think consumers will always be ultimately responsible for recycling, since producers cannot force someone to recycle their products. But this all changes with the rise of “producer take-back” programs, which are environmental laws for landfills that are being pushed by “Zero Waste” proponents like TCE. This would force manufacturers to work with waste management companies and government agencies to recover and recycle their products. When it comes to long-term progress in reducing the harmful effects of landfills on the environment, this approach may make the most sense.
TCE is also not waiting for “producer take-back laws” to become more widespread. They are doing everything they can right now to be a great asset for consumers irrespective of what manufacturers are doing. TexasTakeBack.org (funded by TCE), is a great guide to recycle just about anything from glass, styrofoam, household chemicals, pharmaceuticals and so much more. Considering TCE (a non-profit organization), is making such a valiant effort to resolve our country’s waste management issues, it is time for the “for-profit” corporations to step up.
Are your company’s products recycled after consumption? In this time of great change in our world, and from a public relations stand point, it is imperative that your company clearly stands out as a green ambassador. You can’t wait until you’re in the midst of an environmental controversy to begin your path as a green company (see BP). Waiting until “you’re forced” to take action will not work. If you retreat and hide from it now, problems will find you later. Your company must start now to do everything in its power to ensure you’re going green in all phases.
This is especially true with your products, which often have your company’s brand name on them, and which will be easily identified when wasted. The first question you should ask yourself is whether or not your customers are educated about exactly how and where to recycle your products. Ask for feedback from your customers, blog about it and show the world you are actively working towards a solution to making sure all your products are recycled.
Eco promotional products like recycled business cards, custom promotional bags and eco friendly shopping bags with your brand name on them is another effective way to show the world you are going green. These types of products are truly eco friendly and will not scathe the environment if trashed. Create a reoccurring community service event with your employees and plant some trees or pick up trash around town for a few hours on a monthly basis.
It is these kinds of small things that can really build momentum for the green movement. Companies can have such a great impact on this world’s eco system if they choose to make the right choice today. Consumer eco consciousness is at an all-time high due to so many recent environmental disasters, which means you can’t afford complacency. Stay ahead of the tide, and take some advice from TCE by making sure you and your company are going green now.
