Can You Recycle Receipts?

Can You Recycle Receipts?

Reviewed by the eCycling Central editorial team on 24 April 2026

No, most thermal paper receipts contain BPA and can't be recycled. Trash them. Some retailers (Target, CVS) now offer BPA-free receipts that are compostable.

Receipts made from thermal paper can't be recycled because they're coated with chemicals like bisphenol A (BPA), which contaminates recycling streams when mixed in with other papers. These receipts don't have the fibres needed for traditional paper recycling processes, making them unsuitable for curbside or kerbside collection.

According to the Royal Society of Chemistry, mobile phones contain up to 60 different elements, including critical raw materials.

Why Receipts Isn't Easy to Recycle

Thermal paper used for receipts is coated with a chemical dye that reacts to heat from printers, creating images and text without ink. This coating contains BPA, which can leach into other recyclables, rendering them unusable for recycling. As of 2019, around 4 billion thermal receipt rolls were produced annually in the United States alone, highlighting the environmental impact (Source: Environmental Science & Technology).

How to Recycle Receipts Properly

To recycle receipts properly, first look for BPA-free options when shopping or ask retailers if they offer eco-friendly alternatives. If you have old receipts, consider composting them at home if they're made of natural fibres like hemp paper. Companies like Apple and Whole Foods now provide receipts on recycled paper or plant-based materials. For specific locations, check with local recycling facilities or organisations such as the Recycle Smart program in Massachusetts.

Alternatives to Throwing Receipts Away

Instead of throwing away receipts, consider scanning them for record-keeping purposes and then composting them if they're made from compostable material like hemp paper. Some businesses offer digital receipts via email, reducing waste altogether. If you must keep physical copies, store them in a reusable container until needed, then recycle the container when empty.

FAQ

Q: What should I do with old receipts? A: Scan and digitise receipts for record-keeping if possible, or compost them if they're made from natural fibres like hemp paper. Avoid throwing them away unless you have no other option.

Q: Are digital receipts better for the environment? A: Yes, opting for digital receipts reduces waste significantly. Many companies now offer this service to help customers reduce their environmental impact.

Q: Can I recycle receipt envelopes? A: Receipt envelopes can be recycled if they're made of regular paper and not coated with chemicals like BPA. Check local recycling guidelines or use composting as an alternative for any doubt.

Sources

• Royal Society of Chemistry
• BankMyCell depreciation tracker
• UNEP