In practice - 5 steps to ... setting up a recycling scheme

1. Understand your local waste stream. Analyse the waste being generated in your area to determine the scope for recycling. "A composition analysis will tell you what volumes of waste are being generated, which will help you decide what to recycle - from paper to IT equipment or plastic," says Professor Adam Read, head of waste management at consultancy Hyder. "There's no point making plans to recycle materials that aren't being disposed of in your area."