Compliance Checklist – Your 6-Step Guide To Avoiding Fines

No matter where your business is located across the country, staying on top of new and updated regulations is key to avoiding fines, which can add up.

Solid waste-related regulations are designed to reduce waste generation and improve environmental performance. As such, legal compliance is not simply a business necessity–it is a valuable tool that guides your business towards greater efficiency and recognition as a leader in sustainability.

Are you in compliance? Here’s your 5-step guide to achieving compliance. Download the full compliance guide below.

1  Track the unique combination of laws and regulations that pertain to your business

Unsure of regulations in your state/city? Check your local solid waste authority and state department of environment websites for updated requirements at least once per year, or call your Great Forest representative. Remember, since regulations differ across jurisdictions, business chains and companies with multiple locations must comply with several sets of rules.

2  Make a plan to comply

Take note of the date that new and updated rules go into effect, and the date at which enforcement starts. Give yourself enough time to prepare for compliance. Make a plan with your building management or sustainability officer. This should include a waste audit, and a compliance assessment to see what is missing.

3  Implement your plan

Based on the results of your waste audit and compliance assessment, develop a plan to bring your business into compliance, and take action.

4 Inform staff and tenants

Success requires buy-in and full cooperation from staff and tenants. Make sure they are aware of the new rules and changes you are making to be in compliance.

5 Monitor

Plan regular walkthroughs and internal inspections to ensure your changes are being made, and that your program is not only in compliance but also running efficiently. Make adjustments and improvement where necessary.

6 Plan for the long term

Follow waste industry trends so you can be ready for future compliance requirements and avoid costly transitions down the line. Taking the lead in waste reduction before you are legally mandated is beneficial for long-term planning.

Download our free compliance guide:

Managing Waste Sustainably: A Regulatory Compliance Guide For Businesses.

Learn more:

Compliance For Sustainability Success

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