I. Introduction
Shredded paper is generated in households and offices as a result of document destruction. Recycling shredded paper has become a major concern due to people being unclear about whether or not shredded paper is recyclable. In this article, we will explore the misconceptions surrounding shredded paper recycling, the environmental impact of shredding paper, the benefits of recycling shredded paper, how to recycle it properly, and alternative ways to reuse it.
II. Misconceptions About Recycling Shredded Paper and What You Need to Know
One of the major misconceptions about shredded paper recycling is that it is not recyclable. However, shredded paper is 100% recyclable. Another misconception is that there is no market for recycled shredded paper, and hence, it is not worth recycling. Nonetheless, a considerable market exists for recycled shredded paper, often used for making recycled paper products like paper towels, napkins, and toilet paper. The third misconception is that recycling shredded paper will contaminate the recycling stream. Although shredded paper can get caught in some sorting machines, it can quickly be removed and either recycled or discarded without affecting the recycling process.
However, there are some important things to keep in mind when recycling shredded paper. Firstly, it should not be placed in your curbside recycling bin. Moreover, shredded paper must be contained in a bag or box, or else it may flutter away in the wind and litter the surrounding environment. Also, shredded paper from a home paper shredder must be crosscut, not strip-cut, which makes it almost impossible for people to read the shredded documents.
III. The Environmental Impact of Shredded Paper: Recycling vs. Throwing Away
Throwing shredded paper in the trash can have adverse environmental impacts. When shredded paper is thrown away, it ends up in the landfill and takes several years to decompose. As it decomposes, it releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming. Recycling shredded paper, on the other hand, helps save the environment by reducing the number of trees being cut down, reducing energy and water usage, and reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills.
Recycling shredded paper requires less energy and fewer resources than producing new paper products. For example, recycling one ton of paper saves 17 mature trees, 7,000 gallons of water, and 3 cubic yards of landfill space. Additionally, the recycling process requires less energy than producing new paper, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
IV. 4 Reasons Why You Should Recycle Shredded Paper and How to Do It Properly
There are several reasons why you should recycle shredded paper. Firstly, it helps conserve resources, as discussed above. Secondly, it reduces waste sent to landfills. Thirdly, it helps protect the environment, and lastly, it conserves energy.
To recycle shredded paper properly, it must be placed in a bag or box. Recycling facilities prefer the bags and boxes to be clear. In case the recycling center has stated specific guidelines, reach out to find out if there are any rules for your area. However, shredded paper from home shredders must be crosscut to be accepted for recycling. Crosscut paper shreds are short and stubby compared to strip-shredded documents, which are longer, more spaghetti-like pieces.
It is worth noting that not all recycling companies accept shredded paper, particularly mixed within other recyclables. That is why it is critical to research and find out if the local recycling center accepts shredded paper so that people know the right place to take it for recycling.
V. Ways to Reuse Your Shredded Paper Instead of Throwing It Away
Shredded paper can be reused in a variety of ways rather than throwing it away or recycling it. It is essential to ensure that the reuse of shredded paper is done correctly in a way that is safe and environmentally friendly. Some of the ways you can use shredded paper include:
- Composting, adding shredded paper to the compost pile is an excellent way to reuse it. However, it is important to ensure that the paper is not glossy, printed, or containing chemicals as it may emit toxins.
- Wrapping breakable items to cushion them when packing for storage or while moving.
- Reduce weed growth by placing a layer of shredded paper on top of the soil around plants.
- As packaging material, a layer of shredded paper can protect delicate items during shipping.
Reusing shredded paper is an excellent way to reduce the amount of waste that goes to landfills while also reducing the costs of purchasing new packaging materials or composting items.
VI. How to Reduce Shredded Paper Waste in Your Home or Office
To reduce shredded paper waste, it is important to first avoid paper usage as much as possible. This can be achieved through the use of digital copies instead of hard copies for work or personal issue. Moreover, people should opt for paperless billing options, reduce the number of direct mailings, and prefer electronic over printed documents.
When it comes to the paper documents that must be destroyed, consider reducing the amount of paper by scanning and digitally storing instead of printing. Moreover, people can always opt for reusable or eco-friendly practices, like using cloth napkins instead of paper, for instance, reducing the quantity of shredded paper generated.
VII. Conclusion
Shredded paper recycling offers incredible benefits to the environment. The misconceptions surrounding it have limited the number of people who recycle shredded paper. However, the truth is that shredded paper is recyclable and can be reused in several ways. Through the tips mentioned in this article, we can reduce shredded paper waste and reduce the impact on the environment.
By recycling, reusing, and reducing shredded paper waste, we can reduce the amount of paper ending up in landfills and conserve natural resources. It is the responsibility of every individual to take steps to reduce paper waste, and we hope readers will take action after reading this article.
