Eco-Friendly Recycled Cardboard. What Is It?

Recycled cardboard is a sustainable material that plays an essential role in reducing waste and promoting eco-friendly practices. But what exactly is recycled cardboard, and why is it considered an environmentally friendly choice? In this article, we answer these questions in a simple and clear way.

What Is Recycled Cardboard?

Recycled cardboard is made from used paper products that are broken down, processed, and formed into new sheets of cardboard. This process allows materials that would otherwise end up in landfills to be reused, conserving resources and reducing waste.

How Is Recycled Cardboard Made?

1. Collection and Sorting: Used paper and cardboard products are collected and sorted by quality.
2. Pulping: The sorted paper is mixed with water and turned into a pulp.
3. Cleaning: The pulp is cleaned to remove impurities such as ink, staples, and adhesives.
4. Pressing and Drying: The cleaned pulp is pressed into sheets and dried to form new cardboard.

This process requires less energy and water compared to producing new cardboard from raw materials.

Why Is Recycled Cardboard Eco-Friendly?

• Reduces deforestation: By using recycled paper fibers, fewer trees need to be cut down.
• Conserves water and energy: The recycling process uses significantly less water and energy than producing virgin cardboard.
• Reduces landfill waste: Recycled cardboard diverts large amounts of paper waste from landfills, reducing overall environmental impact.
• Supports a circular economy: The reuse of materials helps create a more sustainable and closed-loop production system.

Types of Recycled Cardboard

• Fully Recycled Cardboard: Made entirely from post-consumer and post-industrial waste.
• Partially Recycled Cardboard: Contains a mix of recycled fibers and new (virgin) fibers for added strength.

How to Recognize Eco-Friendly Recycled Cardboard

• Look for eco-labels such as “100% Recycled” or “FSC Certified.”
• The surface of recycled cardboard may appear slightly rougher or have visible fiber patterns compared to virgin cardboard.

What to Keep in Mind

• Strength: Recycled cardboard may be slightly less durable than virgin cardboard, depending on its composition.
• Moisture Resistance: Some recycled cardboard may require coatings for additional moisture protection.

Why Choose Recycled Cardboard?

By choosing recycled cardboard for packaging, shipping, or storage, you contribute to sustainable practices that benefit the environment. You also help reduce the demand for raw materials, lower carbon emissions, and support recycling industries.

In summary, eco-friendly recycled cardboard is a simple yet impactful choice for businesses and consumers looking to reduce their environmental footprint and embrace more sustainable packaging solutions.