Irish businesses can strengthen workplace waste management without adding training costs, following the launch of a free online module from MyWaste. The 20-minute course gives staff practical guidance on waste segregation, while helping facilities teams embed more consistent recycling practices across offices, hospitality venues, retail sites and shared workplaces.

The module forms part of MyWaste’s free Commercial Waste Toolkit, which includes posters, bin labels and guidance materials designed to make correct sorting easier. As Drinks Industry Ireland reports, participants receive a digital certificate on completion, and the training can be incorporated into staff induction, onboarding and refresher programmes. For facilities managers overseeing multiple buildings or service teams, this offers a straightforward way to reinforce common procedures without developing training materials from scratch.

The operational case is significant. Environmental Protection Agency research cited in the announcement indicates that more than 70% of material in the commercial general-waste stream could instead be directed to recycling or food waste collections. Better segregation at source can reduce contamination, improve the quality of recyclable material and help businesses avoid sending recoverable resources into residual waste. The MyWaste workplace guidance also provides practical resources that facilities teams can use to support implementation across their sites.

The initiative has direct relevance for facilities management because successful waste segregation depends on everyday systems as much as staff awareness. Clearly labelled bins positioned where waste is generated, consistent instructions in kitchens and canteens, and suitable collection routes for batteries, electrical items and glass can make correct disposal easier. Standardising these arrangements across a portfolio can help facilities teams deliver a more consistent service while supporting wider sustainability objectives.

The toolkit is already being used by organisations including AIB. Its Consumer Sustainability Lead, Colin Morehead, reported improved staff awareness and more consistent segregation practices across workplaces. While these results are company-reported rather than independently quantified, they illustrate how practical guidance can support employee engagement. Businesses can access the training through the official MyWaste commercial training module.

For the sector, the lesson is direct: better waste performance starts with systems employees can follow every day, and free training gives facilities teams a practical, low-cost way to improve segregation, reduce contamination and make sustainability part of routine workplace operations.

Source: Drinks Industry Ireland / MyWaste / Environmental Protection Agency