Commercial establishments in Miami-Dade County produce an estimated 1.7 million tons of solid waste annually -- more than 50% of the total waste generated countywide. Managing this waste stream through recycling and waste reduction is good for South Florida's environment, but it also makes good business sense. Evaluating how your company is producing waste can uncover organizational inefficiencies -- some of which may be costly. Further, an environmentally responsive approach to managing solid waste can enhance your company's image. But, if these reasons aren't convincing enough, you should know that commercial recycling is also required by law.

Commercial Recycling Ordinance Requirements
Commercial recycling became mandatory countywide in July of 1992. The County Ordinance requires the following:

Owners/Property owners of commercial establishments in Miami-Dade County must provide a recycling program for their employees and tenants, using the services of an authorized waste hauler or private recycling hauler.

The program must recycle three items from the following list of ten: high grade office paper, mixed paper, corrugated cardboard, glass, aluminum, steel, other scrap production metals, plastics, textiles, wood.

Modified Recycling Programs -- those which incorporate modifications, substitutions or reductions to the requirements stated above -- may be submitted to the Department of Solid Waste Management for review and approval.

How do I start a recycling program?
Contact your current waste hauler. If you have a contract, check the renewal date and the renewal clause for terms and conditions. Many local waste haulers and private recycling vendors offer commercial recycling collection, so you may want to shop around to compare rates and services. If you choose your existing waste hauler, check to see if you can reduce your level of waste service (either the size of your current waste container or frequency of pick-up) to help offset the cost of implementing a recycling program.

How are the recyclables collected?
Most recycling and waste haulers provide portable, 96-gallon containers ("toters") that must be placed outside on the day of collection. If you have significant amounts of corrugated cardboard, "cardboard-only" containers are also readily available. Additionally, many businesses have found that employee participation increases when deskside recycling containers are located within individual offices or workstations. 

What If I have nothing to recycle?
Most businesses have something to recycle, even if it is only a small amount of material. If your business generates very limited amounts of recyclables, consider applying for a Modified Recycling Program.

What happens to commercial establishments that don't recycle?
Rather than penalize businesses that do not conform to the law, Miami-Dade County prefers to assist those uncertain about how to comply by providing specific information and suggestions on how to get started. However, the County does randomly notify, and if necessary, inspect commercial establishments reported to be out of compliance by haulers and concerned citizens. Those who do not comply with recycling may be subject to fines ranging from $300 to $950, based on the size (in square feet) of the commercial establishment.

To learn more about setting up a successful recycling program that complies with the County's recycling law, visit the Business Waste Minimization and Pollution Prevention page or the Greening Your Office page  on the Environmental Tips site.