Why is it that 12- and 24-pack beverage container boxes are not readily recyclable?
It all has to do with how these boxes were manufactured in the first place. This material, referred to in the industry as wetstrength, has been treated with chemicals to strengthen the box and make it resistant to water. Because of this, it is extremely difficult for a paper mill to break down the box during the pulping process at the mill. This is one of the materials that can cause equipment problems and quality control at a paper mill. The best thing to do is just toss it in the garbage so it never becomes a contamination issue at the recycling facility and paper mill.
