Across the US and also the EU, the facts state that approximately 80% of all packaging is cardboard.  While cardboard is recyclable, a surprising 850 million tons of cardboard and paper are thrown away each year, so much so that these products represent the majority of waste heading to landfills.  Businesses are no different in that they too generate a lot of cardboard waste.  Instead of throwing away cardboard, businesses can focus on the more environmentally friendly option of office recycling.  But when working with a commercial recycling company, it’s important to break down cardboard in order to save time and money.

The Cost of Cardboard

Big, bulky cardboard boxes may not seem like that big of a deal.  Some choose to simply set the boxes out for recycling to pick up.  But what businesses don’t realize is that this could be adding expenses to the recycling pick-up bill.  Unbroken down cardboard boxes allow air to take up space,  More air and bulk means the recycling bin fills up faster.  The faster it fills up, the more trips it may require to empty, which can mean spending more on recycling than initially planned.  Breaking down cardboard waste is an efficient, less costly option.

Steps to Breaking Down Cardboard

The first step to breaking down cardboard is to cut through any seams, especially along the bottom, holding the box together.  Free any tape around the edges of the box as well.  Then, pull all four flaps straight up and lightly pull until the box collapses.  Now it should be flat so that it can be easily stacked, saving space in the recycling bin and making it easier for the recycling company to pick up. If you are considering an office recycling program for your cardboard waste, Mission Recycle can help get you started.  Contact us for more information.