Recycling Area Calculator

Site Recycling Area Planning Guide

1) Define daily recyclable volume with simple logging

Start with a seven-day log of waste and recyclables leaving the workface. Convert bags, wheelbarrows, or skips into approximate cubic metres and record a daily average. Enter that value as V_day. When activities change (fit-out vs. structural works), update the average to keep the area estimate reliable.

2) Choose storage days that match your pickup cadence

Storage days (D) represent the time between collections. A three-day cycle commonly balances housekeeping and transport costs, while weekly pickups can require larger footprints. For high variability, add a higher contingency percentage rather than overestimating every input.

3) Apply compaction and segregation to reflect real operations

The compaction ratio (R_comp) reduces loose volume into stored volume. Typical values range from 0.40–0.80 depending on handling and moisture. Segregation into material streams improves recoverability but increases bin count; this calculator sizes bins per stream, then totals them.

4) Size containers using usable fill volume, not nominal volume

Container capacity is calculated from internal dimensions and usable fill height, then reduced by a fill factor. An 80–90% fill factor is practical for safe loading, uneven shapes, and “do not overfill” rules. If you stack bagged materials, set stacking levels above one and keep utilization conservative.

5) Translate area into a workable layout with access allowances

The storage footprint is expanded using aisle allowance and contingency, then converted into a suggested rectangle based on a preferred aspect ratio. Perimeter clearance adds a setback for fencing, barriers, and circulation. If forklifts or trucks operate inside the zone, increase aisle allowance to maintain safe turning and visibility.

FAQs

1) What daily volume should I enter if I only track weights?

Use your typical bulk density to convert: volume = weight ÷ density. If density is unknown, estimate from container fills and adjust after one week of observations to match site reality.

2) Why does the calculator use compaction ratio?

Compaction ratio converts loose volume to stored volume. Loose recyclables occupy more space; compaction, baling, or careful stacking reduces footprint. Use a lower ratio when you compact more effectively.

3) How do I choose the number of material streams?

Match your waste plan and local recycling contractor requirements. Common streams include metals, timber, cardboard, plastics, and mixed recyclables. More streams improve recovery but require more bins and space.

4) What is the difference between fill factor and utilization?

Fill factor limits how full each container can be for safety and practicality. Utilization reduces theoretical capacity for operational realities like uneven loading, partial availability, contamination controls, and access constraints.

5) When should I increase aisle allowance?

Increase aisle allowance when equipment must maneuver inside the recycling zone, or when bins require side access for handling. Tight urban sites typically need higher allowances to keep routes clear and safe.

6) Does the layout length and width include clearance?

Yes. The calculator forms a rectangle from subtotal area, then expands it by the perimeter clearance on all sides. This provides a more realistic envelope for fencing, buffers, and circulation.

7) How can I reduce the required area without lowering compliance?

Shorten storage days by increasing pickup frequency, improve compaction, right-size containers, and keep utilization conservative. Also review stream selection—combine low-volume streams only if contractors accept it.