In 2011, ICE Chicago relied on 1 recycling bin for 200 workers; a hybrid system of 4 centers and desk boxes raised recycling to 38% and participation to 85%

A single recycling bin was once the only option for a 200-person, 24-hour operation at the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Chicago Field Office.

In 2011, the office began working with the U.S. General Services Administration to improve its recycling program. After experimenting with different collection methods, ICE established four recycling centers in common areas and provided individual recycling boxes at employees' workstations.

The program achieved a 38% recycling rate and an estimated participation rate of 85%.

The first recycling stations did not work as planned

ICE initially tested recycling stations for paper and beverage containers at several locations on each floor of its downtown Chicago office.

However, the bins became contaminated with trash and other non-recyclable materials.

ICE and GSA then distributed individual recycling boxes to employees. Cleaning staff emptied and sorted the boxes, allowing employees to recycle with minimal effort.

Education was a key part of the program

ICE promoted recycling through emails and fliers and provided employees with reminders and instructions on separating recyclable materials.

Handling sensitive information created an additional challenge because some documents had to be shredded. The agency had to educate employees on separating different types of recyclables and distinguishing sensitive papers from non-sensitive ones.

ICE also asked employees for suggestions to help make the program a success.

Electronics recycling cleared storage space

With help from the building's property management, ICE organized an electronics recycling and reuse project to clear a storage room filled with equipment the agency no longer needed.

The electronics were either donated to local schools or recycled through a third-party certified electronics recycler.

Lack of funding and obtaining employee participation were among the program's biggest challenges. ICE hoped to continue working with GSA to encourage recycling throughout the rest of the building and was also evaluating methods to introduce recycling collection at another location in a privately owned building.