Recycling is an essential aspect of modern waste practices, aiming to reduce the volume of waste that reaches our landfills and conserve natural resources. Cardboard recycling, in particular, has become a daily routine for households and businesses; however, confusion often arises when we encounter a common issue: wet cardboard. At ACE Recycling & Disposal in West Valley City, Utah, we understand the intricacies of recycling and are here to clarify whether wet cardboard can be part of your recycling efforts.
The Challenge with Wet Cardboard
When cardboard gets wet, the fibers holding it together weaken, possibly causing contamination with other materials. This weakening can complicate recycling as it affects the material’s integrity. Recycling cardboard typically includes shredding, pulping, and then pressing it to make new paper or cardboard products. If wet cardboard is too damaged, it might not survive this rigorous process, resulting in lower-quality recycled material.
The Solution for Wet Cardboard Recycling
If the wet cardboard is only slightly damp and has retained its shape and strength, it can often still be recycled. In this case, we encourage you to allow the cardboard to dry out completely before adding it to your recycling bin. However, if the cardboard is heavily soaked, falling apart, or contaminated with oil, food waste, or other substances, it becomes a contaminant.
Do’s:
- Dry it Out: Place slightly damp cardboard in a dry, well-ventilated space to air out before recycling.
- Remove Dry Portions: If part of the cardboard is wet, remove and recycle the dry parts if possible.
- Check with Local Guidelines: Always confirm with your local recycling programs as guidelines can vary.
Don’ts:
- Don’t Assume All is Lost: Not all wet cardboard is recyclable—evaluate its condition.
- Don’t Include Contaminated Material: Don’t recycle cardboard soiled with grease, oil, or food residue.
- Avoid Guesswork: If you’re unsure, reach out to ACE Disposal & Recycling for advice on specifics.
We understand the importance of proper disposal of reusable resources at ACE Disposal & Recycling, and we strive to facilitate effective recycling while keeping the process convenient and straightforward for our residents.
ACE Disposal & Recycling Commitment
At ACE Recycling & Disposal, we are committed to ensuring that our customers get the best recycling service in the valley. We strive to constantly improve and expand our recycling programs to meet the needs of our community, while also protecting the environment for future generations.
Our commitment to maintaining beautiful communities keeps our customers coming back year after year. Dependable services, phenomenal sales staff, and dedicated drivers make us the top choice for those who share our pride in our community.
If you have any questions, please contact ACE Recycling & Disposal for reliable assistance. Together, we can make informed decisions to support a sustainable future. Reach out to us today to learn more about our recycling solutions and how we can help maintain the cleanliness and eco-friendliness of your area. Let’s work together to preserve our planet for generations to come.
