Can You Recycle Shredded Paper?

Can You Recycle Shredded Paper?

Last reviewed by Sarah Chen on 01 April 2026

Sometimes. Many recycling facilities reject loose shreds because they jam sorting machines. Bag them in a paper bag first.

Shredding documents ensures privacy and security, but the resulting small pieces pose challenges for recycling centers. Loose shredded bits can slip through machinery and cause jams during the sorting process. Recyclers need materials to be clean and easy to handle, which means avoiding tiny particles that are hard to manage.

According to the US EPA, recycling one million laptops saves the energy equivalent of electricity used by 3,657 us homes in a year.

Why Shredded Paper Isn't Easy to Recycle

Shredded paper is made of thin strips of regular paper, which causes problems in recycling facilities. The smaller pieces mix with other recyclables and can jam machines designed for larger sheets or whole documents. This isn't just a theoretical issue; it's common practice that recycling centers ask people to bundle shredded bits together.

How to Recycle Shredded Paper Properly

To recycle your shredded paper, you need to take a few extra steps before dropping it off at a collection point. Start by placing the shreds in a paper bag or box. This keeps them contained and makes handling easier for recycling workers. In the UK, some local councils accept bundled shredded paper mixed with other recyclables during kerbside collections-check your area's guidelines online.

Alternatively, you can find dedicated shredding drop-off locations. For instance, companies like Shred Station offer secure drop-offs in multiple cities across the US and Europe. Another option is to use a service provider that specializes in document destruction and recycling. In the UK, Shredall Security provides both on-site services for businesses and public events where individuals can bring their shredded paper.

According to the UN Global E-Waste Monitor 2024, only 22.3% of e-waste was properly collected and recycled in 2022.

Alternatives to Throwing Shredded Paper Away

If you're looking for ways to reuse shredded paper before recycling it, there are several practical options. You can use shreds as packing material when moving or shipping items, which is an environmentally friendly alternative to bubble wrap and foam peanuts. Additionally, some schools and art studios welcome donations of shredded paper for craft projects.

Another idea is to compost the paper if you have a garden. Shredded paper breaks down quickly in a compost pile and adds carbon-rich material that balances out nitrogen-rich green waste like food scraps. Just ensure the shreds aren't contaminated with ink or plastic labels, as these can be harmful to your soil.

FAQ

Q: Do I need to remove staples from shredded paper? Yes, always remove any metal objects like staples before recycling shredded paper. They can damage sorting machines and complicate the recycling process.

Q: Can I use clear tape on documents before shredding? Avoid using adhesive tapes because they're not recyclable and can contaminate your batch of shredded paper. Opt for non-adhesive methods or shred documents without any attachments.

Q: What if my local facility doesn't accept shredded paper? If your kerbside recycling program doesn't take shredded paper, look up local businesses that offer document destruction services and have partnerships with recyclers. Many companies will accept dropped-off materials at their facilities for proper disposal.

Sources

• US EPA
• UN Global E-Waste Monitor 2024
• Consumer Technology Association