How can I engage tenants to improve recycling?

Engaging tenants is key to improving recycling performance. Even with a well-designed setup, results depend on how tenants use the system.

Focus on clear, simple communication and practical actions.

Here are some effective ways to engage tenants:

• Share simple performance insights
  Show tenants how they are performing using metrics such as recycling rate and general waste, or activate their monthly waste reports
• Keep communication short and relevant
  Focus on one message at a time instead of sharing too much information
• Use real examples from the building
  Highlight common mistakes, such as incorrect sorting of food packaging or coffee cups
• Provide clear guidance
  Make it easy to understand what goes where, especially in shared areas
• Follow up regularly
  Consistent communication helps maintain awareness over time

Simple engagement initiatives can also help:

• Short internal campaigns
• Visual reminders near sorting stations
• Sharing results monthly or quarterly

You can also use your data to make communication more effective:

• Share improvements over time to motivate tenants
• Highlight areas or buildings that are performing well
• Focus on specific issues, such as high levels of general waste

A good approach is to combine data with practical guidance. Show tenants what is happening and explain what they can do to improve. Remember that tenants have access to their own waste data over time through Carrot for Tenants.