Can you recycle greaseproof paper in the UK? We all want to do our bit to help the environment, and recycling can play a big role in this. Most people will now have a recycling bin where all of their rubbish that is able to be recycled can go. However, there can sometimes still be a bit of confusion about the sort of waste that can be put in these bins. This article will look at whether or not you can recycle greaseproof paper in the UK
Can you recycle greaseproof paper in the UK?
Paper is a widely recyclable product however generally speaking, it is not usually possible to recycle greaseproof paper. This is because of the silicone coating which gives this paper its non-stick surface. Greaseproof paper also can’t be recycled because of the oil and stains that are on the paper from your cooking would be classed as a contaminate.
Is greaseproof paper the same as baking paper?
What type of paper cannot be recycled?
Paper is something that can usually be widely recycled in the UK. This sometimes leads to the misconception that all types of paper can be recycled, but this is not actually the case. There are actually quite a few paper products that are not suitable for recycling. Often the best way to tell is to scrunch the paper. Once released if it starts to return to its original shape it is not recyclable.
The decision that McDonald’s made to switch from plastic to paper straws was quite controversial as not many people seemed to be a fan. It was made even worse when it soon came to light that these new paper straws could not be recycled because of their thickness. This led to more people thinking about what paper products could be recycled and which ones couldn’t.
The following list shows things that can’t be recycled along with the rest of your paper:
- Sticky notes: The adhesive strip along the top of these notes mean they are not suitable for recycling.
- Receipts: If they are printed on thermal paper then this contains properties that cannot be recycled.
- Some wrapping paper: If the wrapping paper has a foil coating it should not be placed with the rest of the recycling.
- Some birthday and Christmas cards: Again, any card that contains foil cannot be recycled.
- Pringles tubes: These may appear to be made from paper and cardboard but they actually also contain a layer of foil.
- Take out cups: Although the sleeve is usually recyclable the cup itself isn’t always because the majority of them gave a plastic lining.
What Eco Alternatives Are Available?
If you would prefer to use an eco-friendly alternative to greaseproof paper, then there are products which are available for this purpose.
- If you care baking sheets: These non-stick baking sheets are free from chlorine and 100% compostable. This means that even though it can’t be recycled and used to make new paper products, it is still not going to landfill.
- Reusable baking sheets: Another alternative is to buy greaseproof paper that can be reused. This paper is usually a lot thicker than regular greaseproof paper and it can be washed down after every use. There will come a time when it needs to be replaced, and the old one will not be able to be recycled. However, in the time that you have been using this sheet, it would have saved a lot of other regular sheets from being thrown out.
- Silicone baking mat: A popular choice amongst bakers these mats are reusable and long lasting. A lot of them come with a two-year guarantee.
Conclusion:
Whether its private and confidential letters you are receiving at home or the masses of confidential documents being shredded. Paper shredders are providing a vital service in protecting and safeguarding. Since the introduction of GDPR in 2018 there is even more of an emphasis on protecting confidential data. However, with the masses of paper being shredded daily it leads us to ask the question can you recycle shredded paper in the UK?
