Waste Metrics Consulting | San Diego | CA

How to Avoid Overage Charges: A Guide to Proper Container Preparation

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 22:40:16 GMT

A Guide to Proper Container Preparation

Did you know that overfilling your trash and recycling containers can lead to extra charges from your waste hauler? These “overage” or “extra yard” charges are applied when your containers are too full, causing issues with collection services and creating hazards. However, you can easily avoid these charges by following a few simple steps.

Close the Lid on Overage Charges: Prepare Your Containers Properly

Here’s how to make sure your waste and recycling containers are prepared the right way:

Recycling Container:
All empty glass, aluminum, metal, and plastic containers, as well as paper and cardboard, should be placed in the recycling container.
Be sure to break down cardboard boxes to save space and ensure your lid closes properly.

Trash Container:
All non-recyclable and non-hazardous garbage should go into your trash container.

What is an Overage?

An overage occurs when your trash or recycling container is too full and the lid doesn’t close properly. This might seem harmless, but it can lead to a variety of problems:

Overfilled containers can spill waste onto the street, creating a mess in your neighborhood.
Drivers may not be able to collect your waste properly , causing delays in service.
Safety concerns arise when items stick out of containers or when loose items are blown around.

Most importantly, overage charges are applied by waste haulers when your container is overfilled. These extra charges can add up quickly.

Need More Room?

If you find yourself constantly running out of space in your trash or recycling containers, don’t worry. There are options available:

You can contact your waste hauler to discuss the possibility of increasing your container size or adding an extra container to meet your needs.

Final Tips to Avoid Overage

Break down cardboard boxes to maximize space.
Ensure that the container lid closes fully after you’ve placed items inside.
Avoid putting hazardous waste or non-recyclables in the recycling bin.

For more tips on how to manage your waste and recycling properly, visit our website or contact us directly.

For further information about recycling guidelines and best practices, visit: www.wastemetrics.us

By preparing your containers correctly, you can avoid overage charges and keep your neighborhood clean and safe!

Understanding Hazardous Waste and Common Items to Watch Out For

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 22:29:05 GMT

Understanding Hazardous Waste and Common Items to Watch Out For

Hazardous waste consists of products that can be poisonous or dangerous if not handled properly. Many items found around the house can fall into this category, and improper disposal of these items can pose significant risks not just to the environment, but also to your family, pets, and the wider community.

If hazardous waste is disposed of incorrectly, it could lead to serious consequences, such as:

Spills in neighborhoods, potentially contaminating local water supplies.
Fires in collection trucks or disposal facilities, endangering lives.
Risks of poisoning to children and animals who may come into contact with these substances.

Common Items Considered Hazardous Waste

Here are some everyday items that are classified as hazardous waste:

Car and Lawncare Products:
The Items like motor oil, antifreeze, brake fluid, and weed killers should never be thrown away in regular household trash.

Paints and Paint Thinners:
These contain chemicals that can be harmful to the environment and dangerous if ignited.

Fluorescent Tubes and Bulbs:
These bulbs contain small amounts of mercury, which is toxic to both humans and animals if released into the environment.

Thermometers and Thermostats:
Many older models contain mercury, making them hazardous if broken.

Batteries:
Whether it’s a car battery, rechargeable battery, or single-use battery, they all contain toxic materials that should not be disposed of in regular trash.

Pesticides:
These chemicals can harm the environment and poison living creatures, including household pets, if improperly handled or discarded.

The Dangers of Improper Disposal

It’s illegal to dump or pour hazardous substances down the drain or throw them into regular trash bins like those used for trash, recycling, or organics. Doing so not only violates environmental laws, but it also increases the risk of children or animals becoming exposed to these toxic substances. In extreme cases, improper disposal can lead to fires or fines.

Avoiding Fines and Accidents

To avoid fines or accidents, always take hazardous materials to your local hazardous waste disposal facility. This ensures that dangerous substances are handled in a way that keeps both your family and the environment safe.

Visual Reminders

Picture items such as:

Gas cans, which are used for storing flammable fuel.
Fluorescent light bulbs, which contain mercury.
Pesticide containers, filled with toxic chemicals.
Paint cans, filled with potentially combustible materials.
Electronic waste like computers, which may contain hazardous elements such as lead and mercury.

By being mindful of what qualifies as hazardous waste, and disposing of it properly, you can help create a safer home and community.

Why We Waste More Food in Summer?

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 22:17:16 GMT

Why We Waste More Food in Summer (and How We Can Fix It)

Did you know we waste 30% more food in the summer than in the winter? This startling statistic comes from a recent study by Divert, Inc., which analyzed food waste trends from 2020-2023 across retail, food service, and industrial sectors. The research compared data from the summer months of July, August, and September with the winter months of January, February, and March.

But why is summer so much worse for food waste? Let’s dive into the main factors contributing to this spike:

Extreme Heat

The study period included some of the warmest days on record since 1940. This intense heat drastically reduces the amount of time food can remain safe for consumption. High temperatures increase the likelihood of food spoiling during transportation, storage, and even in-store displays. As a result, retailers and consumers are left with a narrower window to sell and use food before it goes bad.

Shifts in Consumer Behavior

During the summer, consumer preferences shift. Fresh, high-quality produce like fruits, vegetables, and salads become the go-to choice. Restaurants also see a surge in customers as people dine out more frequently in the warmer months. However, the increased demand for fresh ingredients creates logistical challenges for retailers and food service providers. Keeping up with changing consumption patterns often leads to overstocking and, ultimately, increased waste when products expire or spoil.

Peak Season for Perishables

Summer is peak season for many perishable foods, particularly fruits and berries. Farmers' markets are overflowing with seasonal produce, and backyard BBQs are in full swing. While the abundance of fresh produce is great, it also means higher levels of waste as these perishable items have shorter shelf lives. Overbuying for parties, outdoor gatherings, and BBQs often results in surplus food going to waste.

The Bigger Picture: Why This Matters

Understanding why food waste surges in the summer is essential to addressing this growing issue. From supply chain adjustments to more mindful consumer habits, identifying these factors allows us to better develop strategies to minimize food waste during the summer months.

How Can We Help Reduce Summer Food Waste?

Plan meals carefully: Avoid over-purchasing fresh produce for events and gatherings.
Support local: Buying from farmers' markets and local producers can help reduce waste through shorter supply chains.
Store food properly: Learn tips for extending the life of perishable foods, especially during hot weather.
Encourage change: Work with restaurants and retailers to implement waste-reducing practices like donating unsold food or improving temperature-controlled storage systems.

We all play a part in reducing food waste, and with summer being a prime time for waste spikes, it's more important than ever to be mindful of how much we buy, store, and eventually throw away. Let’s turn those fresh, summer vibes into fresh, sustainable habits!

Why a Waste Audit is Essential for Your Business?

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 20:38:50 GMT

A waste audit is a process used to identify, quantify, and analyze the types and amounts of waste generated by an organization. It involves examining waste streams to understand how waste is produced, where it originates, and how it is managed. The primary goal of a waste audit is to gather detailed information that can be used to develop strategies for reducing waste, improving recycling efforts, enhancing overall waste management practices and spendings. Here are key steps typically involved in conducting a waste audit:

Planning and Preparation:
Define the scope and objectives of the audit.
Assemble a team and assign responsibilities.
Identify the areas or processes to be audited.
Gather necessary materials and equipment.

Waste Collection and Sorting:
Collect waste from designated areas over a specified period (e.g., a day, week).
Sort the waste into categories (e.g., paper, plastic, organic, hazardous).
Weigh and record the amount of waste in each category.

Data Analysis:
Analyze the data to determine the composition and volume of waste generated.
Identify trends, patterns, and sources of waste.
Assess the effectiveness of current waste management practices.

Reporting and Recommendations:
Compile the findings into a report.
Provide recommendations for waste reduction, recycling, and improved waste management.
Set targets and develop an action plan for implementing changes.

Implementation and Monitoring:
Implement the recommended strategies and actions.
Monitor progress and make adjustments as needed.
Conduct follow-up audits to assess the effectiveness of the changes.

Waste audits are valuable for various types of organizations, including businesses, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and municipalities, as they provide a clear understanding of waste generation and offer actionable insights for minimizing waste and enhancing sustainability.

A waste audit is essential for a business for several reasons:

Cost Savings: Identifying waste reduction opportunities can lead to significant cost savings in disposal fees, raw material costs, and operational inefficiencies.
Environmental Responsibility: Conducting a waste audit helps businesses understand their environmental impact and develop strategies to reduce waste, which supports sustainability goals and improves corporate social responsibility.
Regulatory Compliance: Many industries are subject to regulations regarding waste management. A waste audit ensures compliance with local, state, and federal laws, avoiding potential fines and legal issues.
Resource Optimization: By understanding waste streams, businesses can optimize resource usage, improve recycling efforts, and identify opportunities for reusing materials, contributing to a circular economy.
Improved Efficiency: Analyzing waste can uncover inefficiencies in production processes or supply chains, leading to more streamlined operations and better resource management.
Reputation and Brand Image: Demonstrating a commitment to waste reduction and environmental sustainability can enhance a business's reputation, attracting customers and investors who value eco-friendly practices.
Employee Engagement: Involving employees in waste reduction initiatives can foster a culture of sustainability within the organization, boosting morale and engagement.
Data-Driven Decisions: A waste audit provides detailed data that can inform strategic decision-making, helping businesses set realistic waste reduction targets and track progress over time.

Waste Metrics is a waste management expert that simplifies the waste audit process for businesses. Utilizing advanced technology and expertise, Waste Metrics analyzes waste audit results and provides solutions tailored to the waste management needs of each business. Whether the goal is cost savings or increased waste diversion, Waste Metrics will guide you through each step, ensuring you reach your objectives efficiently.

Commercial Organics Recycling in California

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 05:52:00 GMT

Waste Metrics Consulting can help your business stay ahead of the curve when it comes to commercial organics recycling in California. We are a San Diego based company that works with businesses throughout the region and the state. We assist companies in training employees, managing recycling collection contracts, and improving their recycling programs for the better. We can help your business remain compliant with state laws, and help reduce your company’s carbon footprint.

In 2014, Governor Brown signed AB 1826 , requiring businesses to start recycling their organic waste on or after April 1, 2016, depending on the amount of waste generated weekly. For the purpose of AB 1826, organic waste means food waste, green waste, landscape and pruning waste, nonhazardous wood waste, and food-soiled paper waste that is mixed in with food waste.

Why recycle organic waste?

California sends about 30 million tons of waste in landfills every year, and more than 30 percent of that waste could be used for compost or mulch. Organic waste such as food and green materials are recyclable through composting, mulching and anaerobic digestion, which can produce renewable energy and fuel. Greenhouse gas emissions emanating from the decomposition of organic wastes in landfills have been identified as an important source of emissions contributing to global climate change.

Requirements

AB 1826 phases in requirements on businesses over time, based on weekly amounts and types of waste produced.

As of September 2020, businesses generating two (2) cubic yards or more of any type of commercial solid waste (trash, recycling and organics) per week must arrange for organic waste recycling services.

As the State of California is pushing businesses to adopt organics recycling programs ( AB 1826 ) to achieve its aggressive recycling and greenhouse gas emission goals, Waste Metrics has been providing organics recycling services to the hospitality industry.

Waste Metrics will:

By adding an organics recycling program, you will help reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills, resulting in lower trash service levels. This will also ensure your business is in compliance with local mandates as cities begin to transition into the “enforcement phase” of AB 1826.

Let Us Help Your California Business WITH COMMERCIAL ORGANICS RECYCLING.

If you’d like a better understanding of the waste your business produces, and how to stay compliant with commercial organics recycling in California, please contact us at (844) 773-7554 or fill out this online form for free compliance assistance. We can help you reduce your waste and make a contribution to a greener, environmentally friendly California.

The post Commercial Organics Recycling in California appeared first on Waste Metrics Consulting | San Diego | CA .

Ways to Reduce Your Commercial Waste Removal Bill

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 05:06:00 GMT

For ways to reduce your commercial waste removal bill, Waste Metrics provides the best solutions for your business. We are a nationwide waste consulting company based in southern California , and we serve the needs of businesses for all their waste inquiries, including overpaying for services. We provide long term controlled price protection that is compliant with state and local regulations.

Somewhere around 95% of commercial businesses find themselves locked into one-sided and long-term service contracts that hike up unneeded costs. Chances are if you’ve signed on with a waste management company, you’ve gotten locked in to an expensive contract, with costs going up continually and your company paying for services it doesn’t need.

It is our mission to help commercial businesses reduce overpaying for their waste and recycling services. Waste Metrics manages your waste removal services, from contractual obligations to ensuring that your business’s waste needs are met.

With our services you get a free waste contract audit where we look at everything in your current waste disposal contract situation, including:

By using our audits, you will no longer be surprised by surcharges, hidden fees and service change costs. We can negotiate better rates and overall deals for you, using our industry knowledge and relationships with haulers nationwide. Through these services, companies have seen savings anywhere from 20% to 60% on their waste removal expenses without making any hauler or service changes.

Let Us Help Reduce Your Commercial Waste Bills.

Whether you are a large organization, multi-location business or a small local business – you can benefit through our recycling programs and contractual negotiations and save on your overall waste removal and recycling costs. The best ways to reduce your commercial waste removal bill are found through Waste Metrics – stop wasting your time or money by contacting us today.

The post Ways to Reduce Your Commercial Waste Removal Bill appeared first on Waste Metrics Consulting | San Diego | CA .

Restaurant in Kailua Kona, HI

Mon, 03 May 2021 13:56:00 GMT

Situation

The director of operations of a restaurant in Hawaii had contacted his trash company to lower his bill, and also reached out to the competition but none were able to improve his situation. Waste Metrics reached out to him a few months later to present our services, and he decided to put us to the test on this restaurant location.

Waste Metrics performed a free waste audit.

Audit

The disposal costs being extremely high in Hawaii, and the fact that this restaurant was in the middle of a contract with the trash company made it impossible for this director to improve the situation. Competitors were not offering lower rates either, and if they did, they would not be able to get the business as the restaurant was under contract.

We also found out that there was a trash weight and overflow issue, in addition to oil spillage inside the enclosure.

Results

After a thorough review of their contract situation and historical services, we suggested service changes, by lowering the container size and increasing the frequency to solve the trash weight and overflow issue, and exchanged the container for a sealed one to prevent liquid spillage.

Waste Metrics leveraged its existing book of business and relationship with the trash company to secure a 24% savings, or a little over $4,000 in annual savings.

No hauling company was changed.

The relationship with the director of operations has since grown to additional locations in 3 different states. His invoice now shows an all-inclusive fixed monthly cost and has a long-term controlled price protection. He also opted to have his different trash bills consolidated into one clear invoice listing the different restaurant locations he oversees.

We can help you too! Contact us for a free Waste Audit!

The post Restaurant in Kailua Kona, HI appeared first on Waste Metrics Consulting | San Diego | CA .

Quick Service Restaurant Group in Minnesota & Wisconsin

Mon, 03 May 2021 13:27:00 GMT

Situation

Waste Metrics reached out to a QSR franchisee in Minnesota and Wisconsin with 12 locations in two states, to present our services. The franchisee was using 3 different haulers. Waste Metrics performed a free waste audit.

Audit

We determined that four locations could improve their trash service costs by implementing a cardboard recycling program. We determined that the company experienced several large price increases over the years, and at some locations, the initial rates were clearly not negotiated. The extremely high sales tax rates applied to waste services in Minnesota made things worse as service rates were going up.

Results

After a thorough review of their contract situation and historical services, we replaced recycling containers at 4 locations by small compactors for cardboard in the kitchens. Not only did that help eliminate the cost of the recycling containers, but it also allowed the franchisee to secure rebates on the cardboard recycled.

Waste Metrics leveraged its existing book of business and relationship with the trash companies to secure an overall 27% savings between all 12 locations, or a little over $48,000 in annual savings, not including the cardboard rebate the franchisee is now receiving. This was made possible by renegotiating service rates, which also resulted in lower sales taxes.

No hauling company was changed.

His invoice now shows an all-inclusive fixed monthly cost and has a long-term controlled price protection. He also opted to have his different trash bills consolidated into one clear invoice listing the different restaurant locations he oversees.

We can help you too! Contact us for a free Waste Audit!

The post Quick Service Restaurant Group in Minnesota & Wisconsin appeared first on Waste Metrics Consulting | San Diego | CA .

Quick Service Restaurant in Los Angeles, CA

Mon, 03 May 2021 13:22:00 GMT

Situation

Waste Metrics reached out to a QSR franchisee in California with 8 locations in Los Angeles County, to present our services. The franchisee was using multiple haulers. When we first reached out, the franchisee was under the impression that all his locations were located in a waste franchise territory (when a city signs an exclusive contract with one trash company at set rates).

Waste Metrics performed a free waste audit.

Audit

We determined that out of 8 locations, two of them were not in a franchise territory. This confusion led the franchisee to experience multiple large price increases over the years. The franchisee was also not in compliance with local mandates about food waste recycling.

Results

Waste Metrics leveraged its existing book of business and relationship with the trash companies to secure a 38% savings at one location and 9% at the other, or a little over $9,000 in annual savings between the two locations.

The new cost also included the implementation of a food waste recycling program to be in compliance with California’s AB 1826 requiring businesses generating a specific amount of trash weekly to implement such program.

No hauling company was changed.

We can help you too! Contact us for a free Waste Audit!

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The Food Waste Challenge

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 22:14:00 GMT

Food waste is THE new topic you will hear about!

In 2019, out of 229M tons of food produced in the U.S., an estimated 24% – or 54M tons – went to waste.

50% of food waste ends up in a landfill, representing about 1/4 of all waste going to landfills.

In order to push businesses and consumers to minimize food waste, a growing number of states and localities are legislating food waste bans or waste recycling laws to limit the amount of food waste a business can send to the landfill. As of January 2021, five states and several localities have passed waste bans or waste recycling laws for food waste. Four states—Connecticut ( Public Act 11-217 ), Massachusetts ( 310 CMR 19.000 ), Rhode Island ( RI General Law § 23-18.9 ), and Vermont ( Universal Recycling Law – Act 148 )—structure their laws as organic waste bans, while one state, California, has instituted a waste recycling law ( AB 1826 ) requiring commercial generators of organic waste to either compost or anaerobically digest organic waste. Each of these states prohibits certain entities that generate specified amounts of food waste from sending it to landfills. The municipal laws that exist function similarly to the laws of these states.

However, each state differs regarding the specifics of its waste ban or recycling law. For instance, they vary with regard to the types of entities covered under the law, the amount of organic waste an entity must produce in order to be covered, and whether exceptions exist for entities located far from a facility that accepts food scraps. As of 2020, Vermont’s law will cover anyone, including residents, who generates any amount of food waste. In contrast, other states cover only certain commercial, industrial, and institutional entities.

Businesses will gradually be forced to implement food waste recycling programs, adding an additional costly expense to their operations.

To help you minimize the cost, navigate the different policies and stay compliant with your local food waste regulations, please contact Waste Metrics at (844) 773-7554 or fill out this online form for free compliance assistance.

(Source: ReFED)

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Now Is Time to Examine Your Waste Removal Contracts

Wed, 24 Jun 2020 16:32:00 GMT

With COVID-19 impacting so many businesses, now is time to examine your waste removal contracts. Many companies have had to shut down due to recent health requirements, making cost-cutting efforts crucial for survival. We’ve found that looking at continuous bills is the best way to cut the fat on unnecessary services- this saves money and buys time until the restrictions are lifted. With Waste Metrics,we aim to help commercial businesses eliminate overpaying for waste and recycling services. We have helped large organizations, multi-location businesses and small local businesses benefit through our recycling programs and contractual negotiations.

Many businesses find themselves locked into one-sided & long-term service contracts that can be costlier and much less favorable than they should be. While under normal conditions, owners may not consider these rates a priority to look into. With companies only allowed to operate at a percentage of their potential, now is time to examine your waste removal contracts that have continued to run at the same rate prior to the shutdown. Using our services, customers have realized savings anywhere from 20% to 60% on their waste removal expenses, without making any hauler or service changes.

Businesses Served

A gas station in San Ysidro, CA had been using the same hauler for 10+ years and experienced multiple large price increases. We found that this company had many Extra Yardage fees that were billed to his account. After two weeks of negotiation, Waste Metrics was able to save the customer over $6,000 annually, with an overall savings of 36%.

A manufacturing and distribution company had 10 locations in 3 different states (Ca, AZ and HI), serviced by 5 different haulers. We determined that the company experienced several large price increases over the years, and at some locations, the initial rates were clearly not negotiated. After a few weeks of negotiation, Waste Metrics was able to save the customer over $33,000 annually, with an overall savings of 30% across all 10 locations.

If you need to save your company, we believe we can help. Contact us here and let’s get started.

The post Now Is Time to Examine Your Waste Removal Contracts appeared first on Waste Metrics Consulting | San Diego | CA .

Negotiating Your Waste Removal Fees

Tue, 12 May 2020 16:00:00 GMT

Let us handle negotiating your waste removal fees. The expense of removing waste should be managed reasonably and fairly with a company that is committed to keeping your business in line with regulation. Waste Metrics helps commercial businesses eliminate overpaying for waste and recycling services.

Our services include implementing long term controlled price protection and ensuring full compliance with state and local protocols. We use our industry knowledge and relationships with haulers nationwide to enable us in negotiations for a better rate and overall deal for you. By dealing with the hauler companies directly, we work with service providers nationwide to negotiate contracts that are reasonable and compliant, save businesses on waste expenses, and protect them in the long term.

With Waste Metrics, we look at your current logistics to figure out where to cut the fat. We look at your bills, past payments, service levels, extra charges and fees, billing errors. With this data, we can create a plan to drop the unnecessary expenses.

We have helped our customers change their billing structure in an area that 95% of commercial businesses feel locked in with due to one-sided & long-term service contracts. Our customers have realized savings anywhere from 20% to 60% on their waste removal expenses without making any hauler or service changes.

Our negotiations have helped companies for years. We’ve had a hand in helping:

We’re ready to take care of negotiating your waste removal fees here . Leave us a detailed message letting us know how we can help. We will contact you and get you started with a free estimate . We’ll find ways to both save you money and protect the environment.

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Selecting A Waste Collection Provider For Your Business

Tue, 20 Mar 2018 16:06:00 GMT

What Should You Be Looking For In A Waste Collection Provider For Your Business? There are dozens of companies in the United States offering waste collection services, from general waste and recycling services, to special waste haulers. So how can you differentiate the different companies available, and what should you be looking for?

4 Tips to Selecting a Waste Collection Provider

1. Is your business located in a franchised area?

Some municipalities have chosen to select a unique provider for curbside service, but also commercial and industrial services. In this case, you will have no choice but to use the company selected by your municipality.
However, there are some exceptions to this rule. Waste Metrics can direct you to the right provider in your specific area.

In open market areas, you will be able to choose between several providers. Keep reading below to see what you should be looking for in a waste collection provider that is right for your business.

2. Is the company reliable?

Several haulers will advertise a 99.9% reliable pickup rate. The reality is very different.

With years of experience working with haulers across the nation, Waste Metrics has the local knowledge to help you select the right provider(s) for your specific needs, at a preferred rate.

We hold the haulers to contract to avoid:

Missed pickups
Billing mistakes or abuse
Bad condition of the equipment that can result in unsafe/untidy work environment

3. Is the customer service responsive?

When you are in need of assistance, it is crucial that your call is answered in a timely manner, and that your contact is fully knowledgeable on your situation.

Way too often, customers can spend 45 minutes on hold before reaching a customer service representative who is not competent to answer your question or will not be able to address your issue, but will instead pass on the information to a local representative who will eventually contact you back a few days later.

Waste Metrics addresses these issues by:

4. Guidance

Each state and municipality have their own requirements when it comes to waste and recycling.
Not being in compliance may sometimes result in fines.
The hauling companies do not always have your best interest in mind and are not providing proper counsel.

At Waste Metrics, we thrive to provide personalized recommendations based on your geographical situation, your type of business and waste disposed to give you the peace of mind and spend your time running your business.

These are just a few reasons why businesses choose to work with Waste Metrics to manage their waste collection needs. Responsiveness, expertise, local knowledge, reliablity are what we bring to our customers.

The post Selecting A Waste Collection Provider For Your Business appeared first on Waste Metrics Consulting | San Diego | CA .

Earth Day is Right Around the Corner

Tue, 20 Mar 2018 15:58:00 GMT

As we are Approaching Earth Day, we thought we would compile a few facts about the trash we generate every day.

Here are 15 Facts About Trash Creation

1. 36 billion aluminum cans are landfilled every year. That’s a $600 million value.
2. Recycling one aluminum can save enough energy to power a TV for three hours.
3. It takes 80-100 years for an aluminum can to decompose in a landfill.
4. Americans throw away 28 billion bottles and jars every year.
5. Glass takes over 1,000,000 years to decompose in a landfill.
6. Americans throw away 28 billion pounds of food each year. That’s 25 percent of the US Food Supply.
7. 25,000,000 trees could be saved every year if every American recycled just one-tenth of their newspapers.
8. Each year, more than 100 billion plastic bags are used by Americans.
9. 36% of what is thrown away each year in the US is paper or cardboard, much of which is recyclable.
10. The average American throws away 7 pounds of garbage every day, that’s 102 tons in a lifetime.
11. Americans throw away enough garbage to fill 63,000 garbage trucks every day.
12. Americans waste 4.5 million tons of office paper a year.
13. The average office worker uses 500 paper cups per year.
14. The energy used to create and distribute junk mail in the US for one day could heat 250,000 homes.
15. Over 2.5 million tons of electronics, such as computers, mobile devices and televisions are landfilled every year, polluting soil and groundwater.

The Earth is our future, let’s save it!

Contact Waste Metrics to see how you can improve your current recycling program, and divert as much waste from the landfill.

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Homeowners Association in Spring Valley, CA

Fri, 09 Mar 2018 15:10:00 GMT

Situation with the Homeowners Association in Spring Valley, CA

The accountant for a Homeowners Association in Spring Valley, CA reached out to Waste Metrics. Their issue was that her price changed so frequently and was being assessed so many excess fees that she could not budget these costs due to the constant changes on her monthly invoices.

Waste Metrics performed a free waste audit.

Audit

The HOA Spring Valley, CA experienced multiple price increases, called the hauler to lower her rates, and had a new 30% price increase two months later. They also had excess yardage charges that were caused by not having the correct service levels in place as well as an ongoing issue with bulk items from move ins and move outs.

Results

The pickup frequency was increased to correct number of service days and, as well, we ensured that they were totally in compliance with the local regulations. We implemented a bulk item plan moving forward so that these large items did not use up all of the container space. This allowed Waste Metrics to successfully to eliminate any overflow and avoid the Extra Yardage fees moving forward.

Despite an increased pickup frequency, the customer was able to save 37% off their original cost.

No hauling company was changed.

Their invoice now shows an all-inclusive fixed monthly price and has long-term controlled price protection.

We can help you too!

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Property Management Company in Pasadena, CA

Fri, 09 Mar 2018 14:36:00 GMT

Situation

A property management company headquartered in Pasadena, CA hired Waste Metrics to renegotiate better rates for trash services at 8 properties, serviced by 5 different haulers.

The customer had been with the same haulers for years, and thus experienced multiple price increases.

Waste Metrics performed a free waste audit.

Audit

Each property was getting the right amount of service. The main issue came from the invoices.

Ancillary fees were constantly fluctuating and the price increases were getting out of control. In addition, there were issues with having so many points of contacts by having to work through five different service providers at their properties, some of which, had a tremendous turnover in staff resulting in many sales reps that were unfamiliar with their accounts as well as their needs.

Results

After a few weeks of negotiation with the different haulers, Waste Metrics was able to save the customer over $38,000 annually, with an overall savings of 21% across all 8 properties.

Because of some services issues, we did make a service provider change at one of their properties and were able to resolve the services issues moving forward.

The billing and management of their waste services was centralized to improve their efficiency, provided them with one point of contact for all properties, and they were able to work with our VP who is 100% familiar with all of their properties and needs.

We can help you too!

The post Property Management Company in Pasadena, CA appeared first on Waste Metrics Consulting | San Diego | CA .

Distribution Centers in CA, AZ and HI

Fri, 09 Mar 2018 14:35:00 GMT

Situation

A manufacturing and distribution company had 10 locations in 3 different states (Ca, AZ and HI), serviced by 5 different haulers. Each branch was managing its own trash service which caused a real disconnect between their corporate office and their local offices with regards to overall services and costs. It made it very difficult to regulate their expenses.

Waste Metrics was hired to help shed some clarity on the situation and look into the details at each location.

Waste Metrics performed a free waste audit.

Audit

We determined that each location had the correct amount of service. We determined that the company experienced several large price increases over the years, and at some locations, the initial rates were clearly not negotiated. In addition, we were able to determine that there were services that they were paying for that never actually happened and resulted in wasted costs to the company.

Results

After a few weeks of negotiation, Waste Metrics was able to save the customer over $33,000 annually, with an overall savings of 30% across all 10 locations.

Two hauling companies were changed, the 8 other locations kept their providers.

The billing and management of their waste services was centralized to improve their efficiency and visibility on services. They now have one point of contact and they have a clear understanding of the services and costs at each location.

Their invoices now show all-inclusive fixed monthly costs and have a long-term controlled price protection moving forward.

We can help you too!

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Gas Station in San Ysidro, CA

Fri, 09 Mar 2018 14:26:00 GMT

Situation

The owner of a gas station in San Ysidro, CA realized that his rates had gotten out of control and needed to be looked into.

Having the time to put his attention to this problem was an issue. He decided to take Waste Metrics up on their free no-cost/no-obligation waste audit to see what we could find out and do for him.

Waste Metrics performed a free waste audit.

Audit

The customer had been using the same hauler for 10+ years and experienced multiple large price increases.

After a thorough review of their historical services, we found that this company had many Extra Yardage fees that were billed to his account. The issue was proven to be caused because of missed pick-ups rather than over use of his service.

We also determined that his container had rusted out so bad that the bottom was broken and was leaking trash. Not only was this unsanitary and a complete eye sore, he was paying a premium rate for this container that was in extremely poor shape.

Results

After two weeks of negotiation, Waste Metrics was able to save the customer over $6,000 annually, with an overall savings of 36%.

These extra yardage fee charges were eliminated immediately and they have not had one since Waste Metrics took over management of their services.

The rotten dumpster was exchanged immediately.

No hauling company was changed.

His invoice now shows an all-inclusive fixed monthly cost and has a long-term controlled price protection.

We can help you too!

The post Gas Station in San Ysidro, CA appeared first on Waste Metrics Consulting | San Diego | CA .