10 Innovative Ways to Recycle Shredded Paper
- By Andrew Jacobs
- Apr 3, 2014
Recycle shredded paper? What?
We get it—most people don’t think twice before they toss their shredded paper in the trash. Companies and individuals alike do it all the time. But have you ever stopped to wonder what impact this simple act may have on our environment?
The Environmental Protection Agency confirms that every year, the average person uses “the equivalent of a 100-foot tall Douglas fir tree worth of paper and wood products.”
Think how much paper we’d waste if we didn’t recycle… Shredded paper is still paper! Like regular paper, it can be recycled and reused for various purposes, like arts & crafts or gardening.
Don't believe us? Keep scrolling for more ideas!
10 Innovative Ways to Recycle Shredded Paper
1. Gift Packaging
Use shredded paper to ensure that delicate gifts will be snug and secure in their gift boxes or baskets. You can also use it to pack away your Christmas ornaments, dishes, and glassware.
2. Arts & Crafts Projects
Take advantage of Easter and use your paper to fill baskets and cover painted eggs.
In the winter, make snowmen or animals with shredded paper by drawing the outline of the character you want on a piece of paper and gluing paper shreds inside of the picture.
3. Paper Mâché
You can also use your shredded documents in paper mâché projects with the kids!
4. Centerpieces
Are you artsy and creative? Take on this challenge and transform your pile of shredded paper into unique centerpieces!
Fill a clear vase with shredded paper and arrange some flowers in it. Or simply fill a bowl or jar with the paper, using different colors to make a bold statement.
5. Decorations
Use your shredded paper to create Christmas ball ornaments. All you have to do is stuff some clear ornaments with colored paper.
Be as festive as you like!
6. Scarecrows
Whether you love going all-out for Halloween or just need something to scare the birds away, you can always count on shredded paper to make sure your scarecrows are nice and stuffed.
7. Pet’s Bedding
Your pet will love having shredded paper in its fortress—it’s absorptive and comfy!
Don't have a pet? Donate paper to animal shelters that will use it for their cats and dogs. This is one of our favorite ways to recycle shredded paper!
8. Cat Litter
Similar to #7, shredded paper with non-colored ink can be used as cat litter. After the paper litter’s used, scoop the waste into the toilet.
This is actually better for the environment than buying cat litter at the store! Unlike paper, cat litter contains lots of chemicals that can’t be broken down.
9. Gardening
Another neat use for shredded paper is in gardening—specifically compost bins. You can also substitute mulch with shredded paper or put shredded paper at the base of potted plants to prevent leaks.
10. Fire starters
And finally, shredded paper can be used as fire starters. Take some paper towels or toilet paper rolls and stuff them with shredded paper.
How do you use your shredded paper? Let us know in the comments below!
Edited on 12/2/2019 by Dana Kim.
10 Innovative Ways to Recycle Shredded Paper
Shredded paper is a common byproduct of office work, but instead of throwing it away, there are numerous innovative ways to recycle it. One option is to use it as packaging material for fragile items, providing a sustainable alternative to plastic bubble wrap. Shredded paper can also be used as bedding for small pets, such as hamsters or guinea pigs, providing a comfortable and eco-friendly option. Additionally, it can be repurposed as mulch in the garden, helping to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Another creative use is to mix it with water and blend it into a pulp to create homemade paper, reducing the need for new paper products. Shredded paper can also be used as a fire starter for campfires or fireplaces, offering a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional kindling. Lastly, it can be donated to local animal shelters for use as bedding for animals in need, providing a valuable resource for a good cause.
The Benefits of Recycling Shredded Paper
Recycling shredded paper offers numerous benefits, both for the environment and for personal use. By repurposing shredded paper, individuals can reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. Additionally, using shredded paper for packaging or mulch can help save money on traditional packaging materials or garden supplies. Recycling shredded paper also provides an opportunity to get creative and find new uses for a common office waste product, fostering a sense of innovation and resourcefulness. Furthermore, donating shredded paper to animal shelters can help support local organizations and provide a valuable resource for animals in need. Overall, the benefits of recycling shredded paper are multifaceted, offering environmental, financial, and creative advantages.
Practical Use Cases for Recycled Shredded Paper
There are numerous practical use cases for recycled shredded paper that go beyond traditional recycling methods. One common use case is to repurpose shredded paper as a packing material for shipping fragile items, providing a sustainable alternative to plastic bubble wrap. Another practical use case is to use shredded paper as bedding for small pets, such as hamsters or guinea pigs, offering a comfortable and eco-friendly option. Additionally, shredded paper can be used as mulch in the garden, helping to retain moisture and suppress weeds while also providing a sustainable alternative to traditional mulching materials. These practical use cases demonstrate the versatility and value of recycled shredded paper in various everyday scenarios.
Alternatives to Recycling Shredded Paper
While recycling shredded paper is a valuable and sustainable practice, there are also alternative options for managing this common office waste product. One alternative is to use a paper shredder with a built-in composting feature, allowing individuals to directly compost their shredded paper for use in gardening or landscaping. Another alternative is to donate shredded paper to local schools or community centers for use in art projects or educational activities, providing a creative outlet for repurposing the material. Additionally, some municipalities offer curbside collection of shredded paper for recycling, making it easy for individuals to dispose of their shredded paper in an environmentally responsible manner. These alternatives provide additional options for managing shredded paper waste and contribute to a more sustainable approach to waste management.
Tips for Using Recycled Shredded Paper
When using recycled shredded paper, there are several tips to keep in mind to ensure optimal results and environmental benefits. One tip is to ensure that the shredded paper is free of any contaminants, such as plastic or metal, before repurposing it for other uses. Another tip is to store shredded paper in a dry and well-ventilated area to prevent mold or deterioration, particularly if it will be used as bedding for pets or as mulch in the garden. Additionally, when using shredded paper as packaging material, it's important to pack items tightly to provide adequate protection during shipping. These tips can help individuals make the most of recycled shredded paper while minimizing potential challenges or issues.
Exploring the Environmental Impact of Recycling Shredded Paper
Recycling shredded paper has a positive environmental impact by reducing waste and promoting sustainable practices. By repurposing shredded paper for packaging, bedding, mulch, or other creative uses, individuals can minimize the amount of paper waste that ends up in landfills. Additionally, using recycled shredded paper as an alternative to traditional packaging materials or garden supplies can help conserve natural resources and reduce the demand for new paper products. Furthermore, donating shredded paper to animal shelters or community organizations can support local initiatives and provide a valuable resource for those in need. Overall, the environmental impact of recycling shredded paper is significant, contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly approach to waste management.