Question 1

Is the waste audit really free?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The initial audit is free for businesses considering our managed recycling services. It's how we determine what your program should look like. For standalone consulting engagements (audit only, no managed services), there is a fee based on facility size and complexity.

Question 2

How long does a waste audit take?

Accepted Answer

The on-site assessment takes 2-4 hours for a single facility. The analysis and report are delivered within 5-7 business days. Implementation of recommendations typically begins within 2 weeks of report delivery.

Question 3

Do you physically sort through our waste?

Accepted Answer

For the most accurate data, yes — we conduct a physical waste sort, categorizing materials by type and weight. For facilities where physical sorting isn't practical (healthcare, food service), we use visual/volumetric assessment combined with historical invoice analysis.

Question 4

What does the audit report include?

Accepted Answer

Waste composition by material type and weight, current disposal costs broken out by stream, diversion rate, specific recommendations with projected savings, implementation timeline, and ROI analysis. For ESG-conscious organizations, we include baseline metrics for sustainability reporting.

Question 5

Will you implement the recommendations?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Unlike pure consulting firms that hand you a report and leave, we implement every recommendation through our managed services — new vendors, right-sized containers, recycling stream setup, employee training, and ongoing management.

Question 6

How quickly do audit recommendations pay off?

Accepted Answer

Most clients see positive ROI within 30-60 days of implementation. The biggest quick wins are typically right-sizing containers (eliminating overpayment for empty hauls) and separating recyclables from the landfill stream.

Question 7

Can you audit multiple locations?

Accepted Answer

Yes. For multi-location businesses, we audit a representative sample of facilities and extrapolate findings across the network. Full multi-site audits are available for organizations that want site-by-site data.

Question 8

Do you audit existing recycling programs too?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Many clients come to us with an existing program that's underperforming. We audit what's working, what's not, where contamination is occurring, and which streams are being missed. Optimization of existing programs typically improves diversion by 20-40 points.

Waste Audits & Consulting — Frequently Asked Questions