By contributing writer Marci
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, paper makes up 27% of the trash Americans throw away each day. Most of that can be recycled. Paper recycling is important. Here is why, how it can happen, and ways that you can recycle paper yourself.
Why Recycle Paper?
Recycling paper has many benefits. When paper is just thrown into the trash, it takes up landfill space or adds to incineration pollution. When paper is recycled, necessary landfill space is reduced, natural resources are conserved and greenhouse gas emissions are reduced.
How To Recycle Paper
Many municipalities offer curbside recycling pick-up along with their trash collections. Other communities offer a drop-off location where recyclable materials may be taken. People just need to participate.
From the collection centers, the paper is taken to a manufacturer who takes the recycled paper and makes it back into useable paper products. This video shows the entire paper recycling process.
Ways to Recycle Your Paper
Used paper can be recycled in your own household. Just because you have written on it or received it in the mail, doesn’t mean it is useless.
- Use shredded paper for pet bedding
- Create paper mache crafts
- Make fire starter logs
- Use newspaper for gift wrap
- Make your own paper
- Fold into interesting origami
Marilyn Lott says
At the top of your page you have all kinds of nice green places which refer us to other interesting-sounding recycling thingys. They don’t work. Please take them down; they are unfair to your visitors!