The South African paper recycling industry collects approximately 1.2 million tonnes of paper and packaging each year.

In total, paper recycling saves about 3.6 million cubic metres of landfill space, equivalent to 1 400 Olympic-sized swimming pools or 212 football fields.

“The holiday season is upon us, with many residents using the opportunity to clear out their cupboards and garages, often resulting in printed documents, cardboard packaging, and other paper recycling making its way to the local municipal dump,” said Samantha Choles, Benoni’s Litter Bug coordinator and representative of the Paper Manufacturers Association of South Africa (PAMSA).

“Paper recycling is essential in the production of new paper packaging and tissue products.”

Traditionally, Boxing Day (December 26) was observed by sorting through pre-loved items and passing them on to those in need.

However, it has become the day when cardboard boxes, toy packaging, and balls of wrapping paper are seen spilling from wheelie bins.

Choles urges residents to give Mother Nature the gift of sustainability this festive season.

Pro-tips for recycling:

• Do not mix paper with other recyclable goods.
• Ensure that paper recycling is not dirtied by other rubbish. Keep it in a closed container or bag.

Recyclable paper includes:

• Cardboard boxes, including dry food and cosmetic packaging, medicine boxes, roll cores, and packing cartons.
• Paper shopping bags.
• Magazines and brochures, including glossy varieties.
• Liquid board packaging, including milk, beverage, and food cartons.
• Newspapers and office paper.
• Paper cups.
• Paper gift wrapping without too much sticky tape.
• Shredded paper is recyclable but not recommended as it is difficult to bale and shredding shortens the paper fibres.

What not to recycle?

• Foil gift wrapping and foil-lined boxes.
• Wax-coated or laminated boxes, such as frozen food boxes.
• Empty cement and pet food bags.
• Disposable nappies.
• Carbon paper.
• Receipts, sweet paper wrappers, and sticky notes are too small to bale, so it’s best to zip these in with your general waste or use them to kindle the braai.

Sensible gift wrapping ideas:

• Create unique gift wrapping by decorating brown paper or paper bags with fingerprints, drawings or handwritten messages.
• Wrap your gifts with plain brown paper or newspaper, tie them with a colourful reusable fabric ribbon, and add some greenery from your garden for a natural, festive look.
• Upcycle branded gift bags by covering logos with a drawing, craft paper, or a piece of Christmas-themed paper.

New Year’s resolution:

“If you are looking for a resolution that truly makes a difference, choose recycling,” said Choles.

“Glass, plastic, and tins should also be kept separate from general waste so they can be recovered, reused, and kept out of our landfills.”

For more information about paper and paper recycling, visit thepaperstory.co.za

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