Paper Recycling

By: West Central Iowa Solid Waste Date: June 1, 2024

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When it comes to recycling paper, we all have personal information that needs to be shredded. But what do you do with all those tiny pieces of paper? You’ve got several eco-friendly options! 

Ways to Recycle Shredded Paper

1. Curbside Recycling: Seal your shredded paper in a bag and place it in your curbside recycle bin. Putting them in a bag helps prevent tiny pieces from scattering and ensures they are correctly processed. 
2. Gardening: If you’re a plant enthusiast, mix shredded paper with potting soil. It can help fill the bottom of larger flower pots, providing a light and aerated layer that promotes healthy root growth. 
3. Recycling Centers: We offer convenient options like the 24/7 paper and cardboard recycle trailer at the Recycling center. You can also bring your shredded paper to the Recycling Building at the Transfer Station. 
4. Rural Recycling: For those living in the country, Carroll County provides a rural recycle trailer located within various communities, making recycling easy without traveling far. 

Special Considerations for Paper Recycling

While recycling paper seems straightforward, there are a few important nuances to keep in mind:

1. Hardcover Books: These are a bit tricky. The hard covers cannot be recycled with the rest of the paper. You’ll need to remove the covers before recycling the inside pages. 
2. Notebooks and File Folders: These can be recycled, but any metal spirals or tabs must be removed first. Once that’s done, they’re good to go in your recycle bin. 
3. Paperback Books and Magazines: These items are fully recyclable. Just drop them in your bin; no extra steps are required. 

Why Recycle Paper?

Recycling paper helps reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills, conserves natural resources, and saves energy. We contribute to a healthier environment by properly recycling all kinds of paper, including shredded pieces. 

At Carroll County Solid Waste, we’re dedicated to delivering environmental services and making recycling as easy and efficient as possible. Whether you live in the city or the country, your paper recycling needs are covered. Recycling paper might seem simple, but it’s always good to know the best practices to ensure we’re all doing our part for the environment. For more information about our services and recycling tips, contact our office at 712-792-5001. Let’s keep our community clean and green!