Ever wonder what happens to your recycling? Here are some interesting things that your commercial recycling products may become.
Paper
The most common office recycling material is paper. But not all paper is made equal. Paper is broken down into three categories: office paper, newspaper and magazines, and mixed paper.
Office paper can be recycled to create facial tissue, toilet paper, paper towels, or napkins. Newspaper and magazines can be recycled into new newspapers, egg cartons, berry boxes, kitty litter, sheetrock, paper plates, and building insulation. Mixed paper, which includes paperboard, junk mail, and paperboard, can be repurposed into paper backing for roofing shingles, paper towel rolls, or new paperboard.
Plastic
Plastics are often confusing because there are many types of plastics. Similar to paper, not all plastics are made equal and are not usually recycled together. Most commercial recycling companies differentiate types of plastics: number 1 and number 2. Plastic number 1 refers to polyethylene terephthalate (PETE) materials, which are usually soda bottles, water bottles, and medicine containers. Plastic number 2 refers to high-density polyethylene materials, which are traditionally Tupperware, milk and juice bottles, and plastic detergent bottles.
Plastic number 1 (soda and water bottles) materials can be recycled into carpet, fleece jackets, backpacks, and insulation for sleeping bags or winter jackets. Plastic number 2 (Tupperware and detergent bottles) materials can be repurposed into buckets, stadium seats, plastic lumber (think: decking and patio chairs), or new bottles.
Glass
Any type of used glass can be reused to make new glass products. These products include new bottles, new jars, or even fiberglass.
Aluminum & Metal Cans
Similar to glass, aluminum and metal cans can be reused to make aluminum and metal cans. Metal cans have an extra benefit in that they can be repurposed into steel beams, bike or car parts, and appliances.
If you’re interested in learning more about recycling or scheduling a recycling pickup, contact us at www.mission-recycle.com.
