Wrapping paper exists in a wide variety of colors and textures. Just because it has the word paper associated with it does not mean all Christmas wrapping paper rolls are made of paper. While some types of wrapping paper are made of a specific kind of recyclable paper, many others are not.
The sort of Christmas wrapping papers that comprise additives such as glitter, or metallic finishes is not recyclable. So, we will discuss how to know whether wrapping paper is eco-friendly, reusable, and most importantly, recyclable. So, let’s get started!
Which type of wrapping paper is recyclable?
Usually, it s the kind of wrapping paper that are plain, non-laminated, not too thin, and made from recyclable materials, are the ones that can be recycled.
The sort of wrapping papers that are too thin comprise low-quality fibers and are not fit for the purpose of recycling. Moreover, the kind of wrapping paper that contains sparkles, sequins, foil, sticky labels, or artificial texture, also can’t be recycled.
How to determine if the paper is recyclable?
One of the best ways to find out if the wrapping paper is recyclable is to do the scrunch test. All you need to do is squeeze the paper into a paper ball.
If the paper stays within the ball shape for a period of time, you can rest assured that the paper is recyclable. However, it is not deemed fit for recycling if the paper springs back out of shape.
How to make your paper recycle ready?
One cannot just send the paper for recycling if it is made of recyclable material. One needs to ensure that all ribbons, gift tags, tape, and any other sort of decorations (if any) are removed before putting the paper into the recycle bin.
Recycling facilities do not accept a mix of recyclable and non-recyclable materials as the separation process is a big hassle for them. In such cases, they just end up tossing the entire lot, a process that is known as with cycling.
This causes a major issue all year round with many materials, including wrapping paper. So, you need to find out if the town, city, or the municipality of your area accepts wrapping paper as accepting it depends upon the regulations of each region.
Tips to reduce gift wrap waste
One can try out these amazing solutions if they choose to Traditional christmas wrapping paper and reduce the amount of waste created rather than throwing it all away.
- Reuse if not recycle
Wrapping paper actually has a longer shelf life and can be reused multiple times if it is handled with care. One must be extra cautious to not tear the Christmas wrapping paper rolls while taking them off the gift and storing them in a dry and cool place.
It is estimated that approximately 4.6 million pounds of wrapping paper are produced in the US alone every year. Out of that, 50% of it goes to waste while the rest 50% remains in people’s homes awaiting reuse.
- Try Zero Waste
There are various other alternatives to using Personalised christmas wrapping paper roll such as baskets, fabrics, bags, tea towels, and gift boxes.
These are great options to conceal a present. One can also use the Japanese art of furoshiki using beautiful knots to fasten colorful, reusable fabrics in very attractive ways. This way, you will not have any wrapping paper left to waste.
- Use another material
One does not need to necessarily choose glittery paper to decorate a present. One can always choose a more simple approach such as basic brown paper; spruce it up with a bow, ribbons, leaves, pinecones, or markers.
On the other hand, one can always reuse newspapers, old posters, and children’s school artwork in place of wrapping paper. These are all eco-friendly alternatives that minimize the need to Christmas wrapping paper rolls uk.
- Purchase better quality paper
Retailers tend to stock the things that are in high demand. However, considering the current state of the environment, recyclability must be a priority for every individual, retailer, or company. So, one must be aware of what they are buying while they are out Christmas shopping.
Various environmental associations across the globe are making efforts to manage and increase the use of recycled paper.
As a result, recyclable wrapping paper is also more accessible these days. So, one must also keep that in mind and buy only high-quality recyclable wrapping paper whenever possible.
As an individual, you can make a big difference in the months leading up to Christmas by making the right choice.
Recyclable wrapping paper is available at higher and lower ends and comes in a variety of designs.
If you are concerned about reducing your Christmas waste, then you must make sure that all the paper you use is either reused or goes into the recycling bin.
So, keep recycling and make this world a greener place to live.
Also Read : 5 ways to hang fairy lights in 2022
