Why Separate Recycling Bins for Paper and Cardboard Are Essential

When it comes to recycling paper and cardboard, many people might wonder why these materials need to be placed in separate recycling bins. This article aims to explain the reasons behind this practice, delving into the differences between paper grades and the complexities of recycling processes.

Understanding the Differences Between Paper and Cardboard

Firstly, it is essential to recognize that card and paper are not the same, and their separation in recycling bins is crucial for efficient and effective waste management. Newsprint and higher grades of printing and writing paper are distinct categories with different properties and recycling characteristics.

Newsprint vs. Higher Grades of Printing and Writing Paper

Newsprint is a type of paper that is produced through mechanical pulping, which involves grinding or refining wood fiber while retaining much of the non-fibrous lignin linkage materials. This process results in a paper that is relatively weak and often not well-suited for recycling. The paper is brightened, not bleached, leaving the dark wood components visible, which makes it less valuable for recycling.

Higher Grades of Paper

In contrast, higher grades of paper are made from chemically separated and bleached cellulose fibers, which makes them much stronger and more valuable for recycling. These materials, such as linerboard, are used in the outer facings of corrugated packaging and are engineered to withstand water, friction, and printing, while also providing stiffness and gluability to the corrugating medium.

The Engineering Behind Linerboard

Linerboard, also known as cardboard in common usage, is a highly engineered material made from two different pulp sheets. The outer layer, designed for water resistance, printability, and strength, must withstand friction and maintain clarity. The inner layer, which contributes to stiffness and gluability, is usually cheaper to produce and less water-resistant.

Other Kinds of Cardboard and Paper Products

Cardstock, another type of paper, is typically solid fiber thick paper with surfaces made from better fiber and often inorganic fillers. This type of paper is weaker and less rigid per unit weight than linerboard and is used for products such as egg cartons and shock absorbers when recycled.

The Recyclability and Properties of Paper and Cardboard

During the recycling process, the properties of cellulose degrade with each cycle. The fiber with the best initial properties contributes more value to each successive cycle. Therefore, separating paper and cardboard for recycling is crucial to maximize the recyclability and value of each material.

Structural integrity is a critical factor in determining the recyclability of cardboard. Cardboard with high linear density, stiffness, and strength is more valuable and easier to recycle. On the other hand, paper that is weak and contains a higher proportion of non-fibrous materials is not as valuable for recycling.

Conclusion

Separating paper and cardboard into different recycling bins ensures that each material is managed effectively, maximizing their recyclability and value. Understanding the differences between newsprint, higher grades of paper, linerboard, and cardstock can help individuals and businesses make informed decisions about waste management practices.

Keywords: paper recycling, cardboard recycling, recycling bins