Real-Life Communication
One of the challenges for waste reduction coordinators is communicating
with a variety of different groups.
"A coordinator is in almost constant
contact with the collection contractor, members of the general public and
other team members," says Kim A. Kidd Kitagawa. She is a waste reduction coordinator.
A
waste reduction coordinator may answer questions from residents about recycling
programs. They also talk with collection employees, deal with co-workers and
solve problems presented by the recycling center.
The main focus of
the job is to reduce waste. Educating the public on the benefits of recycling
is very important.
Waste reduction coordinators accomplish this through
education programs presented at schools and to community groups. They also
get publicity for new recycling programs and promote the positive results
of community recycling.
"A major part of this job is persuading people
to change long-ingrained habits," says Alec Cooley. He is a solid waste reduction
manager.
"Being able to listen and understand the other person's concerns
and points of view is important to be successful," he adds. This is especially
important when expanding current recycling programs.
"Trying to provide
residents with clear and easy-to-understand directions on preparing and setting
out recyclables properly is a challenge," says Kitagawa.
If the recyclables
are not properly prepared, they will not be accepted by the recycling company.
You
have to understand what steps are inconvenient for residents and explain why
things need to be done a certain way. That could mean greater participation
in recycling programs.
You are a waste reduction coordinator for a
small municipality. It is an established suburb and recycling has been going
on for over a decade.
Recyclables collection and the two recycling
stations in the community accept glass, plastic, aluminum, yard waste, newspapers
and paper products. You also have a composting program.
Lately, many
older residents have retired. The community has also experienced an influx
of younger families with children. You've noticed a decline in recyclables
collection and an increase in the amount of recyclable products ending up
in the regular trash collection.
Write a flyer reminding residents
of the materials they can recycle and the benefits of recycling for the community
and the planet.