Is there anything more certain than uncertainty? It’s the world we live in, with evolving regulations and challenges to even the best-intended efforts. So how do we strive for success when the finish line is constantly moving? It takes resilience, adaptability and a strategy that works. Here are a few tips I’ve learned over the past 20-plus years in the recycling business:
- Be flexible
You know what they say about best-laid plans. When you create a plan, include Plan B options and contingency plans to consider in case the environment changes.
- Control what you can control
There’s no need to stress over things that are out of our hands. We may not be able to control pending legislation, but we can influence it with facts, and we can prepare our business for rule changes that are most likely to occur.
- Don’t wait for perfection to act
One of my favorite sayings is ‘don’t let perfect be the enemy of good.’ We must seek out the best intelligence we can and make calculated decisions based on what we know.
- Leverage your network
Remember, you are not in this boat alone. Connect with colleagues in the business to identify trends, challenges and potential solutions. Attend relevant conferences and consider areas where you might work together.
- Keep moving forward
No one can sit by and wait for the confusing to become clear. Take action, review progress and adjust as needed. Even small steps forward matter. They may be the foundation of larger steps down the road.
Since we know uncertainty is one of the few certainties in life, at CSA we customize circularity strategy to each individual client’s changing needs. We embrace science and are always looking for new technologies to make recycling more effective and cost-effective, while investing in the future. We help clients develop strategic relationships with best-in-class materials processors and help them get the best value from the recycled plastics marketplace.
While a world of uncertainty is a sure bet, it doesn’t have to be a roadblock. With the right mindset, approach, and partners, uncertainty might help us create just the opportunity we’re looking for.
