Many commercial real estate management companies have become committed to partnering with effective waste management service providers in the communities where they operate. It is important to track diversion rates (the percentage of waste diverted away from landfill) on a monthly basis and to develop effective source separation programs and waste reduction work plans. Tactics such as waste audits and construction waste management policies provide further help in efforts to continually improve performance in this area.

Recycling is just one way to reduce wastes. To be really effective, it is important to incorporate the 4Rs Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Recover into our daily routines.
Landfill sites account for about 38% of Canada's total methane emissions. Methane is 20 times more potent as a greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide.

The mobius loop, an international recycling symbol, can be found on many products. A mobius loop in a light background means that the packaging or product can be recycled where facilities exist. A light mobius loop on a dark background advises consumers that the product contains recycled materials.

Along with the mobius loop, there may be figures indicating what percent of the recycled content is post- consumer and what percent is post-industrial. Post-industrial recycled products contain materials left over from the manufacturing process. This material has not been used by consumers yet. Products with post- consumer recycled materials are preferred as they have already been used by consumers at least once. In this way, they are "more recycled" than post-industrial products. But beware! Products displaying the mobius loop may not be recycled where you live. For example, many local recycling programs do not collect and recycle cardboard. By learning what you can recycle in your area, you can make wise decisions while shopping.