How to Properly Recycle Online Shopping Packaging
By: Fiona Wang
With COVID-19 cases going up and online delivery becoming more and more convenient, receiving delivery boxes have become a norm in many lives. With delivery packaging coming in a variety of sizes and materials, it’s hard to know what material can be placed in your blue recycling box or not. Here is a simple guide that you can follow to figure out how to properly recycle your packaging!
**This is a general guide to recycling and may not apply to every district/city. Consider taking a look at your local recycling guidelines in order to see what works for you.**
Outer Packaging
For this blog post, the outer packaging includes all the packaging that the stuff that you’ve ordered comes in. This includes envelopes, boxes, and more!
Cardboard Boxes!
Most packaging comes in a cardboard box which can be recycled in most curbside recycling systems. Simply flatten the box and remember to remove any labeling or tape. The tape is usually made of a plastic backing and is coated by an adhesive, which cannot be recycled! If the box has a waxed layer, unfortunately, it cannot be placed in the recycling bin and should be placed in the garbage.
Remember to check your local guidelines! Some districts may require you to tie the flattened cardboard with strong twine, and others may require you to go to a facility.
Interested in upcycling your cardboard box? Consider using the box for composting! Check out this website to learn more: https://mashable.com/article/beginners-guide-to-composting/
Padded Paper Envelopes
These can be recycled! Most curbside recycling programs will accept these envelopes.
Interested in upcycling these? Consider saving them for your next art project or if you need to ship something in the mail.
Bubble-Lined Envelopes (including bubble wrap in general)
Unfortunately, since the paper portion of the envelope cannot be separated by the plastic, these bubble-lined envelopes cannot be recycled and should be placed in the garbage. HOWEVER, some cities, such as some cities in British Columbia, may accept them at a specialized drop off depot spot.
Want to upcycle? Save them for future shipments or use them for different art projects. Check out this link for some cool ideas: https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/50-amazing-ways-to-reuse-bubble-wrap-around-your-house/
Plastic Polyethene Bags
Usually used for clothing, these bags, in most cases, are not accepted in your curbside bin and should be brought to your local specialized facility. HOWEVER, if you live in Toronto, these are actually accepted in your curbside blue bin.
Interested in upcycling fashion? Consider turning your plastic bags into jewelry or into a trendy belt!
Inner Packaging
Inner packaging includes all the miscellaneous items that come in the box!
Papers
Please note: Coloured paper wrapping cannot be recycled due to the dye!
There are many different types of paper packaging that may come with your delivery. Here are a few:
Brown Wrapping Paper can be placed in your curbside recycling bin!
Tissue Paper can be placed in your curbside recycling bin!
Shredded Paper unfortunately cannot be placed in most curbside bins due to its size which could interfere with the machinery. Instead, consider placing it in your home compost or bring it to a special facility so it can be recycled.
Want to upcycle? Consider using the paper for DIY crafts, composting, wrapping paper, and more!
