El role in and cardboard Paper and cardboard are everyday materials derived from wood. The more we consume these materials, the greater the pressure on forest resources, which can lead to deforestation if not managed properly. However, one of the key advantages of paper and cardboard is that both materials are highly recyclable, reducing the need to cut down more trees.
Around 60% of the role in and cardboard that is used in the world can be recovered for recycling. In this process, the containers Special containers, such as the blue container, play a fundamental role, as they allow paper and cardboard waste to be separated from the rest of the waste, facilitating its recovery and subsequent recycling.
By sorting and reusing these products, new types of paper and cardboard can be produced, which makes a significant contribution to environmental protection. Recycling paper not only saves trees, but also reduces water and energy consumption during the production process, thereby reducing the overall environmental impact.
Why is it important to recycle paper and cardboard?
Recycling paper and cardboard has benefits for both the environment and the economy. According to environmental studies, for every ton of paper recycled, the following are saved:
- 17 adult trees
- 140 liters of oil
- 27.000 liters of water
- The emission of up to 900 kg of CO2 is avoided
In addition, recycling paper reduces landfill space and prolongs the lifespan of landfills. Organic waste such as paper towels and tissues are not recyclable as they are considered 'waste to be burned' once used, which increases the importance of recycling clean paper and cardboard.
The paper and cardboard recycling process
Recycling paper and cardboard follows a meticulous series of steps:
- Collection and separation: Paper and cardboard waste is deposited in the blue containers intended for this purpose. It is vital that the paper is clean and not contaminated by other materials. In industrial plants, they are separated according to their thickness and quality.
- Compaction: Once separated, the waste is compacted into large blocks to facilitate its transport to recycling plants.
- Processing: In the plants, paper and cardboard are shredded and mixed with water in a machine called pulper, which creates a cellulose paste.
- Deinking and refining: Inks, glues and other impurities are removed, resulting in a cleaner paste.
- Formation of new role: After the refining process, the pulp is pressed and dried to form new paper with specific characteristics depending on its use (water resistance, thickness, etc.).
Recycled products: giving waste a new life
Once recycled, paper and cardboard can have many new uses. Depending on the quality of the pulp obtained, recycled paper can be converted into:
- Paper for printing and writing
- Corrugated cardboard for packaging
- Cardboard for crafts and other products
- Paper plates, cups and other utensils
It can even be used to create biodegradable paper, napkins, tissues and many more products that are integrated back into the consumer chain in a sustainable way. Companies are increasingly implementing the use of recycled cardboard, which helps to further reduce the environmental impact.
Practical tips for recycling correctly at home
To actively contribute to recycling paper and cardboard, you can follow these tips:
- Make sure to fold or cut paper and cardboard into smaller pieces before placing them in the blue container.
- Do not place whole cartons outside the containers, as this makes collection difficult.
- Avoid throwing used tissues or paper towels into the paper bin, as these are not recyclable. Put them in the organic waste bin.
- If you have very large boxes, take them to the local recycling center if necessary.
It is essential to remember that recycling begins at home. The more products we recycle correctly, the fewer natural resources will be consumed and the lower the environmental impact.
Correct management of the paper and cardboard waste It also helps to reduce methane emissions in landfills, as these materials are biodegradable and decompose quickly if managed properly.
By recycling paper and cardboard, we are extending the life of natural resources, reducing waste in our landfills and helping to reduce the destruction of forests around the world. Promoting recycling at all levels, from personal to industrial, is an essential step towards building a more sustainable future.