Business Recycling 101
U-Pak’s Guide to Smarter Waste Management
Whether you’re managing a commercial facility, industrial site, or multi-residential property, understanding recycling best practices is essential for reducing costs, improving sustainability performance, and meeting regulatory compliance. U-Pak offers comprehensive waste and recycling solutions that help businesses simplify material separation, reduce contamination, and achieve measurable environmental impact.
THREE Basic Rules for Efficient Commercial Recycling
Streamlining your recycling program starts with proper sorting. These foundational rules help ensure recyclables remain clean and marketable.
RULE 1
Recycle the Core Materials
Focus on high-value recyclables such as bottles, cans, paper, and cardboard. These items are widely accepted and ideal for recovery.
RULE 2
Keep Recyclables Clean and Dry
Food and liquid residues lead to contamination and rejection. Ensure containers are empty before recycling.
RULE 3
No Plastic Bags or Bagged Recyclables
Loose recyclables are easier to process. Bagged items can jam equipment and lead to unnecessary downtime at recycling facilities.
Recycling Guide
What Your Business Can Recycle with U-Pak
Our tailored recycling programs are designed around your local guidelines and operational needs. U-Pak provides guidance, training, and ongoing support to help your team recycle effectively.
Acceptable Recyclables
Plastic Bottles & Containers
Only rigid plastics like bottles, tubs, jugs, and jars. Always rinse and recap.
Metal Cans
Empty aluminum, steel, and tin food and beverage cans.
Paper Products
Newspapers, office paper, and magazines—free from grease or moisture.
Cardboard & Paperboard
Flatten boxes for better bin efficiency. Grease-free pizza boxes may be recyclable.
Food & Beverage Cartons
Varies by location—check with U-Pak for regional compatibility.
Glass Containers
Consult your U-Pak representative to confirm local glass recycling availability.
NOT Accepted
Plastic Film, Wrap & Bags
These materials clog processing equipment. U-Pak offers alternative solutions for managing flexible plastics.
Coated Paper Cups
Wax or plastic-lined cups are not recyclable.
Polystyrene (Styrofoam)
Common in foodservice, this material is landfill-only.
Tangled Items
Hoses, wires, and ropes pose operational risks to recycling facilities.
Household or Medical Waste
Items like clothing, needles, or automotive waste require special handling. U-Pak offers specialty disposal programs, including MedWaste Tracker® for regulated waste.
Recycling Myths That Hurt Your Sustainability Goals
Myth: Recycling Symbols Guarantee Recyclability
Reality: The "chasing arrows" symbol does not mean an item is recyclable. Focus on the item’s form and local guidelines—U-Pak’s experts can help audit and clarify.
Myth: Dirty Containers Are Okay
Reality: Even minimal food residue can spoil entire batches of recyclables. A quick rinse goes a long way.
Myth: If It’s in the Bin, It Will Be Sorted
Reality: Contaminants can disqualify entire loads. Proper sorting at the source saves processing time and cost.
Myth: All Glass Is Recyclable
Reality: Not all recycling programs accept glass curbside. U-Pak will identify local options or provide dedicated collection solutions.
Myth: Aerosol Cans Are Universally Accepted
Reality: Only empty aerosol cans may be recyclable, depending on your area. U-Pak helps businesses navigate these variations safely.
Other Waste Management Services
Commercial Waste Removal
U-Pak offers a variety of waste removal, disposal and recycling services to meet your commercial waste needs.
Waste Audits for Businesses
A waste reduction audit & development of a work plan are required for establishments over 90,000 sqft in Ontario.
Front-End Container Bins
Designed for commercial, industrial, and institutional applications. We have dumpter bins in various sizes and shapes.
QUESTIONS & INQUIRES
Get In Contact
Let's Get Started
To learn more about U-Pak’s solutions for waste management contact us at customerservice@upak.net or call us at 416-675-3700.
