Most cardboard can be recycled, however not all cardboard can be recycled and there are a few checks that can be made before recycling cardboard, to ensure it doesn’t get sent to the wrong facility.
Check the On-Pack Label
Recycling labels and symbols are printed on packaging. Learn about the standard recycling symbols on packaging and how to use them to check if packaging can be recycled.
Test for Wax or Plastic Coating
When you run your fingernail across the surface of the packaging, if it has a wax coating then it will leave a faint white scratch. If the packaging has a plastic laminate coating then the cardboard will crinkle when you try to fold or crease it – as opposed to normal cardboard that will fold or crease cleanly.
Check for Grease or Moisture Damage
Also if a cardboard box has been greasy or wet then it will be classed as contaminated and put in the general waste. This is because the wet or greasy cardboard will break down the paper fibres in the recycling process and contaminate the rest of the batch.
Remove Tape Before Recycling
Staples can be left in the cardboard, most recycling facilities can handle these without any problems.
More on Cardboard Packaging can be found at capscases.co.uk/services-2/sustainable-cardboard-packaging.
A few seconds checking your packaging will make all the difference to whether your cardboard is recycled or not.
