Recycling More and More

Posted on: 27 November 2023

Cardboard is one of the most commonly used items in the packaging industry, but it's also the most abundantly recyclable material. Recycling cardboard reduces the need for new materials and creates useful products, contributing to environmental protection. However, recycling cardboard can be a complicated process. Proper preparation is essential to ensure that recycled material is not wasted. 

Understanding Cardboard Types

Before you start recycling cardboard, it's essential to understand the types of cardboard available. Cardboard type is primarily dependent on its intended use. Determining the cardboard type is the first step in figuring out how to recycle it because different kinds of cardboard require specific processing to be recycled correctly.

Cardboard shipping boxes are the most commonly recycled type, followed by paperboard boxes used for cereal and snacks. Corrugated cardboard, used for heavy-duty packaging, is the toughest to recycle due to its thick layers and wavy design. 

Preparing Cardboard for Recycling

For cardboard to be recyclable, it must be clean and dry. Cardboard soiled with grease, food, or chemicals may not be able to break down in the recycling process. Therefore, removing any tape, labels, or staples in the cardboard is crucial, as they can disrupt the processing equipment. You'll need to flatten the cardboard to save space and reduce the time it takes to process it. Many cardboard recycling facilities have specific requirements for the amount of cardboard accepted, so it would be best to check with them first.

Best Practices for Processing Cardboard Recycling

At this stage, the cardboard is ready to be processed. Most cardboard recycling uses a baler, which compresses large amounts of cardboard into a compact package for easy transport. Once the cardboard is compacted, it can be transported to the recycling facility. The baler is an essential tool in the recycling process as it saves on storage space and makes transportation much more manageable.

Benefits of Cardboard Recycling

Recycling cardboard has numerous benefits, including reducing solid waste in landfills, creating new products, and conserving natural resources. Recycling cardboard saves landfill space and conserves electricity. Recycled cardboard is the primary material used in producing new cardboard, helping to reduce energy consumption, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. Recycling cardboard can also create jobs, as the process takes skill and provides employment for people in the recycling industry.

Cardboard recycling is a critical component of environmental conservation and sustainability. Cardboard recycling depends on the types of cardboard, preparation, and utilizing proper processing techniques. Consumers and businesses can significantly reduce waste and conserve natural resources when they recycle cardboard. Recycling helps minimize environmental impact and fosters economic growth by creating jobs in the recycling industry. 

Reach out to a cardboard recycling service near you to learn more.