Your complete guide to choosing the best waste management company

There are so many different waste management companies offering a variety of services; how do you know which one is the best for your company? In this blog post, we will provide you with a guide on how to choose the best waste management company for your needs.

What is their history?

Integrity and history are vital to your choice. A waste management company is an extension of your building, one that has proven over time that it will not bring unnecessary media attention, but more importantly, a company that will bring assurance to those utilising its service. Many businesses within the waste management industry are family-run, kept alive through community and reputation. With waste management companies like Bywaters operating through London since the 1950s, it is clear that this is one of the few industries left where survival has always been linked with service.

Do they have the best environmental accreditations?

Most reputable waste management companies have been around for decades; however, time is not a direct reflection of quality. As with any other type of business, waste management firms are regulated by independent bodies to ensure that they uphold certain standards. These standards cover a wide range of areas, from health and safety (ISO 45001) to quality management (ISO 9001). Additionally, look for companies that have energy management certification (ISO 500001) as this shows that the company is sustainable and cares about environmental issues. By doing your research, you can be sure to find a reputable and high-quality waste management company.

Nothing’s new under the sun – a term often recycled, but also one that reminds us that we are not the first customer any reputable waste management company has had. Accreditations review waste management firms, so you don’t have to.

The FORS gold accreditation is a mark of quality assurance that is only awarded to the very best businesses in the service industry. Businesses must meet a rigorous set of standards for customer service, product quality, and safety. The process is overseen by an independent body and acts as a valuable way for you to separate the sites that just have good websites from the businesses that get the job done to a great standard.

Click here for a full list of the best possible accreditations for your next waste management company.

Can they sustainably manage all of your waste?

The management of waste produced by businesses has become increasingly complex in recent years. This is due to stricter regulations and a greater variety of waste streams that need to be managed. As a result, it is essential to choose a company that is able to adequately handle the exact needs of your business. The first step is to identify the various types of waste your business produces, whether you’re a school that produces a lot of cardboard, a coffee shop disposing of cups, or a community centre focused on improving your building’s recycling rate, it’s imperative you pick a waste management company equipped and prepared to deal with your demands.

Are they environmentally friendly?

Do you want a business that is only about the bottom line? Or one that cares about the job in its entirety? A company that is dedicated to sustainable practices and protecting the environment is one that is likely to be well-rounded and have a positive impact on the world. Such businesses often have initiatives in place such as public beach cleans, online lectures, free courses, and more. This allows them to do their part in preserving our planet. Reputable waste management companies are typically those that are most dedicated to sustainability. By working with a company that is dedicated to protecting the planet, you can be sure that your business is doing its part.

Have they won a range of awards?

Your waste management partners’ work is your work. As the person in charge of choosing your next waste management company, you understand more than most how your decision reflects on you. This is true for the good and bad of waste management. When choosing a company, choose one with a history of obtaining positive PR and awards, as these reflect well on your company. A perfect example would be the highly-esteemed Green Apple award, presented in the House of Parliament annually; such a prestigious accolade is not only presented to your partner, but also your company/building.

Do they provide an insightful reporting portal?

The best reporting systems provide you with detailed statistics at the touch of a button, allowing you to focus on your job whilst being informed of the progress of your recycling. Systems like BRAD break down your recycling statistics in a simple dashboard, outlining recycling rates, CO2 savings and more. Having this level of detail at your fingertips helps you to make changes and save money by adapting your service to your actual use.

Reporting systems are vital. The biggest total waste management companies may even offer API connections through services and machines, such as a Weightron (a scale that provides a more granular breakdown of your waste on site).

Do they have sustainability consultants?

Lastly, but maybe the most crucial aspect to consider is the availability of sustainability consultants. The best waste management companies provide consultants that work closely with you to deliver business wide environmental improvements. Working together, you can help your staff better understand the industry and how they can positively contribute. Innovative and informational methods like Audits, Waste Awareness Days and even training sessions are held by these teams to deliver targeted improvements and ensure your staff feel involved. These are proven to increase recycling rates and are the best example of customer services a waste management company can provide.

How to choose the best waste management company for YOUR business?

When choosing the best waste management company for your business, ask yourself:

• What is their history?
• Do they care about sustainability?
• Can they handle our type of waste?
• Do they have all the environmental credentials and awards?
• Do they have sustainability consultants?

If you don’t know where to ask, start with us. Our dedicated team are here to speak with you on the phone or through email.