Different types of paper can be recycled, but some are more difficult due to mixed elements. Common household paper, cardboard, and computer paper are easily recyclable. Reusable or corn-based paper is also an option. Reusing non-recyclable paper is encouraged, and businesses can be encouraged to use recyclable paper.
Different types of paper can be recycled. Some sheets are more complicated to recycle because they mix different elements. For example, bags with plastic windows may not be recyclable. Paper with plastic coatings can also prove to be a challenge. Your regular household paper can be recycled, but you should always check with your local recycling company for exclusions.
The following types of paper can be recycled easily:
Cardboard
Instruction sheet
Newspaper
Magazines (remove staples)
Circular advertisements in magazines
Computer paper
Copier paper
Other types of paper can be recycled with a little work. For example, if you have bags with plastic windows, you can cut out the windows and then recycle the bags. Be careful with junk mail, especially if you destroy it. Much of its paper is recyclable, but things like empty plastic cards or laminated paper may need to be pulled out.
It becomes easier to understand which paper can be recycled by using recyclable paper as much as possible. Instead of buying “virgin” paper, made from plant products, look for paper that has already been recycled. Also, when shopping for paper cups, you can look for ones without a plastic liner so they can be recycled.
Paper made from products such as corn can also be recycled. This is a relatively new form of paper resembling foam. Instead of the non-recyclable foam products, you can generally toss the corn-based containers straight into the wastebasket. Even Chinese food containers can be recycled provided you remove their metal supports.
If you can’t recycle a certain type of paper, consider reusing it. Photo paper used in printers can be used to print more than one image. Additionally, schools often look for extra paper supplies for art projects. You should inform the school if the paper can be recycled, as leftovers usually end up in the paper bins.
You can encourage more use of recyclable paper by trying to buy only recycled or recyclable items and by writing to businesses you frequent that don’t use recyclable paper. By recycling paper, large industrial companies can help minimize the use of new paper and create less debt to the environment.
Some companies are responding well to consumer requests to use recyclable paper. This has been the case for many food companies, many of which now have recyclable paper cups. Given the huge number of people who frequent such restaurants on a daily basis, a company’s choice to use recyclable paper can prove popular and responsible.
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