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rethink: paperrethink: paper

A 2000 study showed that 21% of household garbage in the Twin Cities metro area is recyclable paper. You can recycle more kinds of paper than you think.

KNOW WHAT:

The demand for recyclable paper is currently greater than the supply. Recyclers and manufacturers in Minnesota and the Midwest are looking for more paper, because they can't get enough of it!

KNOW HOW:

Paper Recycling Guide: Can I Recycle It?

(Printable PDF Version)

Yes

  • Mail, office and school papers
  • Magazines and catalogs
  • Newspapers and inserts
  • Phone books
  • Shredded paper in closed paper bags
  • Cardboard boxes
  • Cereal boxes, cracker boxes, pasta boxes, cake mix boxes
  • Shoe boxes, gift boxes & electronics boxes
  • Boxes from toothpaste, medications and other toiletries

    • No

  • Pizza boxes, egg cartons or boxes soiled with food
  • Boxes from refrigerated or frozen foods
  • Paper towels, napkins, cups and plates
  • Gift wrap

    • Paper

    Food Box Guideline:


    If the product is stored in the cupboard - the box is recyclable. If it goes in the fridge, freezer or microwave - it isn't.

    Don't forget to recycle your cans and bottles too! Visit our RETHINK: Cans and Bottles page for more information.

    KNOW WHY:

    Paper recycling has many benefits. By recycling, Twin Cities metro area residents can:

    • Use less energy
      Production of recycled paper uses 80 percent less water, 65% less energy and produces 95% less air pollution than paper production using raw materials.
    • Reduce greenhouse gas emissions
      In 2003, residential and commercial recycling in Minnesota reduced greenhouse gas emissions equal to taking 2.3 million cars off the road.
    • Save natural resources
      Recycling one ton of paper saves 7,000 gallons of water.
    • Create jobs
      Over 19,000 jobs in Minnesota are involved in recycling. In fact, recycling creates four jobs for every one job created in the waste management and disposal industries.
    • Reduce taxes
      Recycling generates $64 million in Minnesota tax revenue every year!

    KNOW MORE:

    Recyclable paper is generated throughout the home, not just in the kitchen. Consider placing containers for recycling next to where you open your mail or in your bathroom. You're more likely to recycle more if recycling containers are readily available.
    For more information on paper recycling in your area, call your city recycling coordinator or contact your county.