How to Recylce Newspaper

You can recycle newspapers in most states.

Paper products such as newspapers, regardless of whether glossy or black and white, are fully recyclable. All you need to do is allocate a trash can and collect newspapers separately from other trash. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, nearly 60 percent, or 43 million tons of paper were recycled in the United States in 2009. Most states run newspaper recycling programs, making it convenient to recycle old news.

Instructions

1. Contact your local municipality to determine whether there is newspaper collection and recycling in your area. Ask what the collection days are, if there is a fee and if the papers have to be put in a special recycling container.

2. Procure a trash can to use solely for newspaper recycling and collection.

3. Remove any plastic packaging or foil covers from newspapers before putting them in the bin. There is no need to remove staples or paper clips.

4. Keep newspapers clear from dirt and contaminants such as plastic, food and liquid.

5. Separate and store your newspapers from other paper products. Cardboard and other paper packaging cannot be recycled with newspapers.

6. Put the trash can out for collection or take the newspapers to a local collection point.

References

• Practically Green: Recycle newspaper & magazines
• Environmental Protection Agency: Paper Recycling Facts and Figures
• Paper University: How is Paper Recycled?