How to Recycle File Folders

Unnecessary file folders make ideal fodder for recycling.

Paper products constituted 28 percent of the 243 million tons of waste Americans produced in 2009, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. When it comes to recycling, every bit helps, and file folders are no exception. Typically made from folded sheets of 11-point paper stock, file folders make prime candidates for the recycle bin. Even if you lack access to a curbside recycling program, you can still recycle your file folders -- either through an organized recycling program or myriad nontraditional recycling options

Things You'll Need

• Scissors
• Clear tape
• File folder stickers
• Nitrogen-rich organic waste

Instructions

1. Send file folders to a community-wide recycling facility. Remove all non-paper pieces from the folders, including metal or plastic hanging tabs or hooks and adhesive, and then collect the file folders in a box or bin. Call ahead to ensure that your local facility accepts file folders and to verify the drop-off procedure.

2. Set up a centralized office supplies recycle bin in your home or office. Put used but still-clean file folders in the bin, along with other reusable office products, such as envelopes and rubber bands. Remove items from the box when you need them, or once the box is full donate it to a community center, daycare center or church youth group for use as craft supplies.

3. Reuse old file folders for personal records in your home office or use them to organize your family's paper memorabilia, such as children's drawings or old school papers. Affix new file folder stickers on the tabs to cover up old writing or turn the file folders inside-out so the blank side of the file tabs face front.

4. Cut up file folders for use as gift tags. Slice each file folder into long strips that measure approximately 1 inch wide. Cut each strip into 3-inch-long rectangular tags. Write the gift message on the gift tag and secure it to the present with a small piece of clear tape.

5. Shred food-stained file folders and toss them into your compost bin after removing non-biodegradable pieces, such as metal and plastic. Mix the paper waste with an equal amount of nitrogen-rich grass clippings or kitchen fruit waste. Keep the biodegradable waste about as damp as a wrung-out sponge and mix the bin once every one to two weeks to recycle the materials into nutrient-dense compost within approximately two months.

Tips & Warnings

• Depending upon the exact requirements of your community's recycling program, you may be able to recycle all of your file folders, or just those that are manila-colored.

References

• Environmental Protection Agency: Municipal Solid Waste Generation, Recycling, and Disposal in the United States
• "The Complete Compost Gardening Guide"; Barbara Pleasant, et al.; 2008