How Recycling Programs Support ESG Goals

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting is no longer optional for most mid-to-large businesses. Investors, customers, and regulators increasingly demand documented evidence of environmental stewardship — and your recycling program is one of the most tangible metrics you can report.

Which Frameworks Apply to You?

The four major ESG reporting frameworks each have specific metrics related to waste and recycling. Understanding which frameworks your stakeholders reference helps you collect the right data from your recycling program.

• check_circleGRI 306 (Waste): Requires disclosure of total waste generated, waste diverted from disposal, and waste directed to disposal — broken down by recovery method
• check_circleSASB: Industry-specific metrics for waste management, including recycling rates and hazardous waste handling
• check_circleCDP: Climate-focused reporting that includes Scope 3 emissions from waste disposal and recycling
• check_circleSEC Climate Rules: Emerging requirements for climate-related disclosures including material waste impacts

What Data to Collect

Your recycling vendor should provide monthly or quarterly reports that include: total weight processed by material type, diversion rate (percentage diverted from landfill), processing method for each material stream, certificates of recycling or destruction, and carbon offset calculations.

Building Your Recycling-ESG Pipeline

The most effective approach is working with a single recycling vendor that handles all material streams and provides consolidated reporting. This eliminates the data fragmentation that occurs when you use multiple vendors for different waste types.