This guide describes the basic elements found in a successful resource recovery and recycling program and provides guidance for the development and implementation of a "world class" program. This guide assumes that such a program does not currently exist at a facility. Depending on the maturity of your existing program, some of these basic elements may already be in place.

The following is suggested list of key steps that should be considered to achieve a "world class" resources recovery and recycling program.

"Key Steps"

Key Step 1: Identify Program Champion and Establish Team

Key Step 2: Complete Solid Waste Survey

Key Step 3: Complete Market Evaluation

Key Step 4: Determine Required Resources

Key Step 5: Establish Program Goals

Key Step 6: Obtain Management Support

Key Step 7: Determine Collection Containers and Segregation Strategies

Key Step 8: Establish Labeling System

Key Step 9: Educate Plant Population

Key Step 10: Implement Program

Key Step 11: Monitor Program Results and Identification for Expansion

The target audience for this guide is the "champion" or the individual who will coordinate and manage the overall program at your facility. The "Key Steps" section has been included to assist you in your efforts to establish and maintain your program. The "Reality Check" at the end of each step has suggestions for shortcuts and other pertinent advice. The information in this section was developed based on three years experience in defining, implementing, and refining a program within the Rockwell Collins Commercial and Defense businesses in Iowa.

Remember that for your program to be "world class", a tremendous amount of work and dedication will be required. At any time during the development or start-up of your program, if you don't feel a genuine need or desire to improve the methods of handling your facility's solid waste generation and disposal practices, or you feel it is just a whole lot more than you want to take on, PLEASE transfer the program to someone else. Once you begin the process to get your site employees set for the change and then stop the momentum, it will be twice as hard for the next person to restart the process. If you demonstrate a personal commitment to improving your site process and instill this commitment to others at your site, there is no limit in what your program will accomplish!