According to a study conducted by the US EPA in 2018, out of all recyclables, paper is the most recycled material in the United States.
Here is a quick list of paper items that you can feel good about recycling:
• Newspapers
• Magazines
• White and colored office paper
• Paper bags
• Cardboard
• Packaging boxes
Types of paper items that should not be put in the recycling bin:
• Paper towels and napkins: These items cannot be recycled mainly because they are made up of fibers that are too short to be remade into new paper products. Plus, they come into contact with food residue, and potentially harmful chemicals, which is convenient for household messes, but not for the recycling facility. Reduce waste and save money by incorporating the use of reusable rags and towels.
• Tissues: Just like paper towels and napkins, tissues (used or not), are made up of short fibers and do not belong in the recycling bin.
For a complete list of paper items that can and cannot go your recycling bin, check your local recycling program guidelines.
