Why aren magazines, cereal boxes and “junk” mail recycled along with newspapers?
Newspapers are usually the most abundant paper type generated in households. Newsprint is a specific grade of paper that has specific uses. Other paper types are comprised of many different paper grades with varied recyclability and market demand. Mixing paper grades can require extra sorting which can increase recycling costs and/or lower the value of the paper. To maximize any recycling process, only the items asked for should be source-separated. Adding other paper types can jeopardize the recyclability of the newspaper and actually hurt the recycling program. In Lancaster County, non-recyclable paper types are processed as waste at the Resource Recovery Facility to generate electricity. Corrugated cardboard is another type of paper that is normally recycled by businesses. Some municipalities are providing drop-off opportunities for small local businesses and residents. Please contact your municipality for the nearest drop-off facility you may use.
