Facility Side of Local Recycling Enforcement Federal Environmental Symposium June 16, 2009 Renae Steichen Environmental Protection Specialist Department of Justice

An Inspector Comes to Your Door, Now What?  Step 1 : Let them in  Step 2 : Ensure the right players are aware of the inspection and/or present Agency facility representative Property management company  Step 3 : Conduct inspection  Step 4 : Follow up on items if cited  Step 5 : Continual improvement

The Inspection  A variety of places will be checked to ensure proper recycling practices Loading Dock Common Areas  Kitchenettes  Copy Rooms  Hallways Individual Offices  Inspector may talk to janitorial staff or individual employees about the recycling program

Common Violations  Inadequate number of recyclable containers  Improper sorting of trash and recyclable materials  Lack of proper labeling on recycling containers  Inadequate educational materials for staffs  Failure to recycle by individuals

Communication is Key  Ask Inspector questions  Talk with property management about responsibility Who will buy extra bins? Who will notify employees on changes? Who will follow up on action items? Clarify with waste management company what materials are acceptable and unacceptable.  Involve Agency environmental representative to learn best practices  Involve Agency lease representative

DOJ Best Practices  Memo on DC Recycling Investigations to all Executive Officers Raise awareness and offer program assistance  Host meetings with employee representatives in buildings to educate Invite DC Inspectors, property management  Create standard recycling materials Bin labels, educational posters, s, tips Make materials available on intranet  Follow up! Verbal and written reminders to employees Walkthrough areas to ensure compliance

DOJ Environmental Programs