Simplify the recycling of your waste with colour-coded bins

Managing different types of waste at your company site can seem challenging. However, in practice, it’s quite simple if you adopt a smart approach. Here are some tips to effectively manage your waste using colour codes.

What is the colour code for waste bins?

The colour code for waste bins is a system to facilitate waste segregation. This colour coding system enables companies and employees to efficiently sort their waste by quickly identifying which type of waste goes into each bin. The aim is to simplify the recycling process, reduce sorting errors, and improve waste management in the workplace.

Why is selective sorting important for companies?

Selective sorting in companies is crucial as it helps reduce their environmental impact while complying with waste management regulations. By correctly sorting waste, companies can recycle more materials, reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills, and conserve natural resources. Moreover, efficient waste management can enhance the company’s image and meet customer and employee expectations regarding environmental responsibility. Claude Dalbera, Facilities Manager at one of Capgemini’s sites, states: “We recognise that we have a role to play in preserving natural resources and biodiversity while fighting pollution and climate change. We are committed to minimising our impact on the environment. That’s why this year we have implemented a waste policy at all of our sites.”

The colour code for selective sorting bins

While there’s no legally defined colour code for selective sorting bins, a common colour system is generally used for the main waste categories.

Yellow bin

This colour is widely used for packaging. It’s intended for plastic waste, metal packaging, and small cardboard items. In your company, encourage your colleagues to dispose of plastic bottles, cans, food trays, and office packaging in this bin.

Blue bin

Blue is typically associated with paper and cardboard. This bin is for newspapers, magazines, office papers, and folded cardboard. Make sure to raise awareness among your teams about the importance of not throwing in soiled papers or cardboard containing food residues.

Green bin

Traditionally, green is the colour dedicated to glass. Use this bin to collect bottles, jars, and other glass containers. Remind your colleagues not to dispose of broken crockery or light bulbs, which require specific treatment.

Brown bin

This colour is increasingly used for biodegradable waste. If your company has a cafeteria or dining areas, this bin will be ideal for food scraps, coffee grounds, tea bags, etc.

Outdoor containers

If your company deals with many waste streams, you’ll also need several waste disposal containers. In many cases, these containers are placed outside, which requires considering several factors. For instance, if the outdoor sorting bin is poorly or not monitored at all, opt for a container that allows for a padlock or has a narrow opening. If the container is placed in a visible location within the company, roofs and partition walls are very practical accessories.

How to implement an efficient sorting system in your company

To establish an effective selective sorting system, you should start by assessing the types of waste your company generates. This may include:

• Office waste such as paper and cardboard;
• Catering waste such as food waste;
• Industrial waste such as plastics and metals.

Choosing the right recycling bins for your workspace

Selecting the right recycling bins is crucial for the success of your approach. Here are the criteria to consider:

• Size: Adapt the capacity of the bins to the volume of waste produced in each area of your company. For example, use an indoor waste sorting bin in the break room and smaller containers in offices.
• Material: Opt for durable and easy-to-clean bins. Recycled plastic is often a good choice, combining durability and environmental commitment.
• Design: Choose bins with an attractive design that’s consistent with your work environment. Aesthetically pleasing bins will encourage their use.
• Lids and openings: Prioritise bins with lids or accessories adapted to each type of waste. For example, a slot for papers, a round opening for bottles and jars.

Strategically placing your sorting bins

The location of your sorting bins is just as important as their selection:

• Equip key areas: Offices, common spaces (break rooms, busy corridors, near printers) and outdoor areas (car parks, relaxation areas);
• Display sorting guides: Install visible information panels near sorting stations to remind people of best practices.

Useful: Pictograms for waste sorting

If you want to improve waste sorting within your company, it’s essential to make the task as easy as possible for your colleagues. This includes providing waste sorting options such as recycling stations or selective sorting bins. Additionally, it’s important to provide proactive information. Self-adhesive pictograms and posters indicating the exact rules for selective sorting can help and allow people to see immediately which bin to use for each type of waste.

Want to learn more about efficient waste management or implementing sustainable waste sorting? Download our white paper: “Waste Management in Companies“.