January 31, 2018

Here’s How to Recycle Your Cardboard Boxes

Question: Is this cardboard box recyclable?

Answer: YES, cardboard is built to be recycled. In fact, cardboard packaging can be recycled 5 to 7 times!

Recycle Cardboard Boxes Right

Here’s how to do it right:

First, empty your box to remove packing materials, such as Styrofoam or packing peanuts
Flatten your cardboard box to save space
Put it in the recycling bin

Now, wasn’t that easy? Pro tip: Ensure your box is dry and clean. Even if it gets wet, it can still be recycled once dried

Cardboard Recycling Tips

A few additional things to keep in mind when recycling cardboard:

Dented, ripped and damaged cardboard can still be recycled
You do not have to remove tape or labels – the recycling process will remove these for you
Milk, juice, and cereal boxes can all be recycled, if clean

Always check your local guidelines for how they want your boxes.

Want to learn more about recycling? See all of our Recycling Q&As.

Learn what the industry is doing about paper recycling

Recycling

Packaging

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) serves to advance U.S. paper and wood products manufacturers through fact-based public policy and marketplace advocacy. The forest products industry is circular by nature. AF&PA member companies make essential products from renewable and recyclable resources, generate renewable bioenergy and are committed to continuous improvement through the industry’s sustainability initiative —Better Practices, Better Planet 2030: Sustainable Products for a Sustainable Future. The forest products industry accounts for approximately 5% of the total U.S. manufacturing GDP, manufactures about $350 billion in products annually and employs about 925,000 people. The industry meets a payroll of about $65 billion annually and is among the top 10 manufacturing sector employers in 43 states. Visit AF&PA online at afandpa.org or follow us on Twitter @ForestandPaper.

RELATED NEWS

Marketplace Sustainability

Product Stewardship

Are Paper Cups Sustainable?

Paper cups are a sustainable choice and an important part of advancing sustainability goals. Paper cups are made from renewable resources and can be recycled at paper mills.

Product Stewardship

Recycling

Solutions to Minnesota's Packaging Waste and Cost Reduction Act

Minnesota lawmakers are rushing to implement the Packaging Waste and Cost Reduction Act. We support and encourage Minnesota lawmakers to complete a needs assessment before considering an EPR program. This would help them reach their goals to improve their recycling system.