Few people realize that in most towns across the USA, mixed paper can be recycled with your weekly recycling pick-up.
To find out whether your town does, Google your local solid waste management program. You can also check Earth911 to find a drop-off center near you.
What is mixed paper?
- Paper of all kinds - not just newspapers and office paper! We mean junk mail, construction paper, old birthday cards, cardstock, paper shopping bags, and any other non-standard paper. Staples are fine.
- Paperboard. Shoeboxes, cereal boxes, paper towel rolls, etc which are clean and dry - no food contamination!
- Soft books of all kinds. Phone books, paperback novels and catalogs are examples.
How to recycle mixed paper at your home or office:
- Designate a bin, box or bag for mixed paper in your home or office. I use an inexpensive crate like this one.
- Deal with junk mail right away. Do NOT set it aside for later. Put your junk mail directly into your mixed paper bin so it doesn’t pile up! Remember: Envelopes with plastic windows cannot be recycled, but their contents can! Shred any credit card offers.
- Make mixed paper recycling a habit. Each time you receive a package, finish off a box of cereal, or pay bills, gather your mixed paper and head toward the recycle bin!
- Put your bin out on recycling pick day along with your other recyclables.
Ready to go a step further? Simplify your paperwork.
If you have thoughts on this or other ideas, post a comment or write to Crystal.
