Business and Workplace Recycling

Wisconsin businesses and other workplaces can save landfilling costs, earn money from the sale of materials and help Wisconsin's economy and environment by recycling.

Wisconsin's recycling laws banned certain materials from landfill disposal. Businesses and other workplace locations must recycle these banned materials. Recycling laws apply equally to all residential and non-residential locations throughout the state. Businesses and other workplace locations must recycle designated materials, as well as provide for the recycling of these materials by their clients or customers. Business and workplace recycling is enforceable under local recycling ordinances implemented by the responsible unit (RU).

Collection Methods

Businesses must collect and store recyclables separately from other waste materials at the workplace. Haulers must keep recyclable and waste material separate during collection. Depending on volume, businesses may collect their recyclables in carts or dumpsters in a single stream, dual stream or multi-stream collection system.

Learn more about finding and working with a waste hauler [PDF 25KB] to recycle all required materials using the best system for your business.

Recycling and Reuse Can Improve Your Bottom Line

Work with your hauler to develop a customized recycling program for your business to ensure maximum efficiency. Consider recycling valuable cell phones and ink cartridges. Common sense measures like copying documents on both sides cuts paper use in half. Using old paper as notepads and setting up office swap days yields savings for everyone.

Hauler Notification Requirements

Haulers must notify clients of state and local recycling laws.

The DNR's hauler notification [PDF 61KB] rule requires licensed waste haulers, collecting municipal solid wastes and recyclable materials, to notify their clients of the need to comply with state and local recycling laws. This requirement ensures all waste generators and haulers are aware Wisconsin's recycling laws apply equally to all residents and non-residential facilities, including those whose waste and recyclables are hauled out of state.

The DNR may take appropriate measures to ensure compliance with s. NR 502.06, consistent with the stepped enforcement process defined in the DNR Environmental Enforcement Handbook. DNR staff will notify the appropriate local government (responsible unit for recycling) about reports of non-compliance.

Is a Computer Junkyard Growing in Your Company?

When you are ready to recycle your old electronic devices, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is here to help. Visit our used and discarded electronics pages to learn more about the recycling options and regulations in your area.