http://earth911.com/news/2013/03/06/5-faqs-about-recycling-cartons/
Chris Rodinis
1. Yes You Can Recycle Cartons!
Since most cartons are constructed of about 90% paper and since very good quality raw materials are the main ingredients in any good carton, there is strong demand for recycled cartons. In other words because of its material content, cartons are one of the best types of material to use in re-manufacturing.
The Carton Council keeps statistics on carton recycling and reports that times are good, in that since 2009, it has grown over 120%. Interesting to note that currently almost 50% of households in the US are recycling cartons!
Earth911 tells us you can find local carton recycling with this link:
2. Not sure what to do with the lid?
Every locality is a little bit different when it comes to carton recycling so better check with your local spot to be certain you are following the rules.
Something known as “good recycling etiquette,” comes into play here. If you want to lend a helping hand, please remove all plastic parts including straws and little caps. Also, rinsing helps the process along in a big way.
3. What’s with the wax?
You thought it was wax, when you felt that coating, however, this is not wax….this is plastic…albeit, in a the form of an extremely thin layer.
This coating is for…you guessed it…”freshness” and the integrity of the package.
Fortunately, this slick bit of plastic has no bearing on our carton recycling efforts.
4. Cabinet or refrigerator what’s the diff?
Cartons The primary setting for cartons are in the fridge or in the panty.
Either way the purpose of the carton is “freshness.”
As you might expect, the material in cartons for the fridge differs from the material in cartons for the pantry.
What would are juice, milk and eggs do without some extra padding in their cartons? That is what is going to keep the “cool” in and the “hot” out.
Another new thing I learned from Earth911 is the term “shelf-stable.” This applies to that which is in the room temperature pantry. So our soy milk, wine, bouillon cubes, and oatmeal cartons have extra amounts aluminum and plastic.
5. The final result of a recycled carton?
In carton recycling, after collection comes separation. Items get sorted according to type and paper mill destination.
Here is a direct quote because I could not say it any better: “The paper mills use a giant blender called a hydra-pulper that separates the paper from the plastic and aluminum so that it can be transformed into new products like tissues, office paper and even building materials.”
Eventually, even the aluminum and plastic, is recycled into products for the construction industry.
In more exotic scenarios, a “poly/al” is created and this product can fuel machinery in paper mills.
Thanks again to Leah Blunt, from Earth911 for her reporting!
For information on electronics recycling please visit: