can you recycle shredding

Can You Recycle Shredded Paper? Best Practices

Shredded paper is a common by-product of keeping personal and professional documents safe. But, recycling shredded paper can be tricky. In the US, about 56% of paper and cardboard waste ends up in landfills each year. This is mainly because recycling shredded paper is hard, as it’s often too small and not enough to fit in household recycling bins.

Shredding documents is key to protecting our personal info. But, it’s important to know how to recycle these shredded papers properly. Not all recycling places can handle paper shreds, and most won’t take small pieces of paper. Luckily, there are ways to make sure your shredded paper is recycled in an eco-friendly way.

Key Takeaways

  • Only 56% of paper/cardboard waste in the US is recycled annually
  • Shredded paper often doesn’t get recycled due to its small size and quantity
  • Not all recycling facilities accept paper shreds, making proper disposal crucial
  • Large-scale shredding operations produce bales that can be more easily recycled
  • Understanding local recycling requirements is key to ensuring successful shredded paper recycling

Understanding Shredded Paper Recycling Basics

Shredded paper recycling has been around since 1909. It’s now a big deal in offices for security. Laws also make shredding documents a must for companies with sensitive info.

What Happens to Shredded Paper in the Recycling Process?

Shredded paper recycling is tricky. The small pieces are hard for machines to sort. They can also mix with other recyclables or get lost during drying.

But, big shredding jobs can make recycling easier. These services shred papers securely and help recycle them.

The Impact of Paper Size on Recyclability

The size of shredded paper matters a lot. Bigger pieces are easier to recycle. Smaller ones are harder to process.

Recycling centres have rules for paper size. They tell people what size is okay before they shred their papers.

Current Recycling Statistics and Challenges

In the US, 68% of paper is recycled. But, recycling shredded paper is tough. It’s seen as less valuable than other paper types.

Shredded paper from businesses also has security risks. Companies that handle shredding and recycling help solve these problems. This makes recycling shredded paper better for the environment and keeps data safe.

Documents That Should Be Shredded

In today’s world, keeping your personal info safe is key. Some papers need shredding to protect your identity and stop misuse of your data. This includes things like pay stubs, bank statements, and medical records. Any document with sensitive info, like your social security number, should be shredded.

It’s wise to shred certain items to keep your identity and data safe. Here’s a list of what you should shred:

  • Employee pay stubs
  • Bank statements
  • Investment transaction records
  • Pre-approved credit card applications
  • Medical records
  • Tax forms

But, you don’t need to shred everything. Normal mail, folders, cards, books, and magazines can go in the recycling bin. Shredding only what’s sensitive helps save paper and keeps your info safe.

Experts say some documents can be shredded sooner than you might think. For example, credit card or utility bills should be shredded right away. Bank statements, pay stubs, and medical bills can be shredded within a year if they’ve been paid. Also, shred old tax records not needed by the IRS.

Getting rid of documents the right way is vital for identity protection and data security. Shredding sensitive documents helps keep your info safe and lowers the chance of identity theft.

“Half of every document contains information required by law to be shredded.”

shredded documents

Secure Shredding Practices

It’s important to shred documents securely. Using a professional shredding service is a good idea. They follow strict rules to make sure your info is destroyed properly.

Can You Recycle Shredding: Methods and Guidelines

Shredded paper is tricky to recycle. The American Forest & Paper Association says it can be recycled, but it’s not as simple as recycling whole sheets. Each city has its own rules for recycling shredded paper.

Professional Shredding Services

For those who care about the environment, professional shredding services are a good choice. They make sure your documents are destroyed safely and the paper is recycled. You can choose from drop-off, “Ship ‘N’ Shred”, offsite, or onsite shredding.

Home Shredding Best Practices

When shredding at home, follow your local recycling guidelines. Usually, put the shredded paper in bags or boxes before recycling. This helps your shredder last longer and is better for the planet.

Local Recycling Requirements

  • Not all places can recycle shredded paper because it’s hard for machines to sort. This can cause problems and damage equipment.
  • Some areas send shredded paper to special facilities, which costs more.
  • Whole paper is better for recycling because it’s easier for facilities to process.

To recycle shredded paper right, check with your local recycling service. Knowing the challenges and best ways to shred helps make a greener future.

Proper Containment Methods for Recycling

Keeping recycling contained is key to stop litter and make sure recycling works. You can use clear plastic bags or sealed cardboard boxes, depending on where you live. Some places might ask you to drop off recycling instead of putting it out for collection.

Always check what your local area says about recycling. The right way to store recycling helps avoid contamination. It also makes recycling more likely to succeed. Keeping recycling bins closed and materials inside helps keep everything tidy and efficient.

Using the correct recycling bins and following the right storage methods helps prevent litter. It also makes sure your recyclables are handled well. Knowing your local recycling rules is essential to recycling effectively.

FAQ

Can shredded paper be recycled?

Yes, shredded paper can be recycled. But, it’s not easy. Only 56% of paper and cardboard waste in the US gets recycled each year. Shredded paper often ends up in the trash because it’s too small.

Putting shredded paper in recycling bins doesn’t work well. It’s best to use professional shredding services to recycle it right.

What happens to shredded paper in the recycling process?

Shredded paper is hard to sort because it’s too small. It can mix with other recyclables or get lost during drying. Most recycling centers don’t take shredded paper from homes.

Big shredding jobs can make bales that recycling centers can handle. But, sorting and keeping information safe are big challenges.

What documents should be shredded?

Shred documents with personal info to keep your privacy safe. This includes pay stubs, bank statements, and tax forms. Also, shred anything with your social security or credit card numbers.

But, you don’t need to shred non-sensitive items like mail or books. These can be recycled normally.

How can shredded paper be properly recycled?

Professional shredding services make sure shredded paper is recycled right. You can drop it off, use Ship ‘N’ Shred, or get it shredded offsite. Onsite shredding is good for keeping things secure.

At home, follow local rules for shredding. This usually means using paper bags or boxes. Always check what your area requires for recycling shredded paper.

How should shredded paper be contained for recycling?

Keeping shredded paper in the right container is key. This stops litter and helps recycling work. You can use clear plastic bags or closed cardboard boxes.

Some places want you to drop off shredded paper instead of putting it in the bin. Always check local rules for the best way to contain shredded paper for recycling.

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