How to Recycle Paper Ream Wrappers

Historically, paper ream wrappers (the protective outer wrapping on copier paper, printer paper and other bulk paper purchases) were not recyclable due to a moisture barrier on the wrapper. The moisture barrier protected the paper from the elements, but that meant the wrapper ended up in the trash instead of the recycling bin. Modern recycling facilities now have the capability of recycling paper ream wrappers along with other recyclable paper types.

Instructions

1. Call your local city garbage collection department and find out if they recycle paper ream wrappers. Some cities offer the service; others do not. For example, the City of Austin collects paper ream wrappers from "Pay as You Throw" customers for recycling, while the city of Hancock in Michigan does not allow paper ream wrappers in recycling bins.

2. Call a local private recycling company to find out what types of paper they recycle. Recycling companies who specialize in office pickups may be more likely to recycle paper ream wrappers than companies that specialize in household pickup.

3. Purchase reams of paper with recyclable ream wrappers.Several major paper companies, including Xerox, offer reams of paper with recyclable paper wrappers. Other earth friendly wrapper will also be available in your local office supply store.

Tips & Warnings

• If your local trash collection agency doesn't collect paper ream wrappers because of the problem with plastic coating, purchase recyclable wrappers without the coating.

References

• City of Austin: Garbage Collection
• City of Hancock: Recycling
• University of Michigan: Recycling