Cardboard Recycling
Why is Cardboard Recycling Important?
Cardboard and paper form 17% of global waste the second-highest amount after food and green waste. Around 5 million tons of paper and cardboard packaging waste is produced in the UK every year with a 70.6% recycling rate meaning that nearly 4 million tons of this is recycled. Did you know that:
- Recycling corrugated cardboard in the UK saves the equivalent of 34 million trees each year
- Recycling one tonne of cardboard saves 7,000 tonnes of water and around 210 litres of oil
- Creating cardboard from recycled materials uses 25% less energy than making new cardboard
- Recycling one tonne of cardboard saves 4,000kW of energy
Since December 2023, the University disposed of around 30 tonnes of cardboard, of which 100% was recycled.
Recycling is good...but we can do better!
- Whenever possible, opt for products with minimal packaging or packaging made from eco-friendly materials. This reduces the amount of cardboard waste generated in the first place.
- If you receive cardboard boxes or packaging, consider reusing them for storage or shipping purposes. This extends their lifespan and reduces the need to buy more.
- Be creative - you can find fun ideas to reuse carboard here, here, and here.
What can be Recycled in the Cardboard Recycling Bins?
Cardboard Recycling Bins can be found in the waste corrals. Smaller cardboard such as cereal boxes can be disposed in the Dry Mixed Recycling bins.
Yes, please
✔ Clean, squashed cardboard
No, thank you
✘ Dirty cardboard such as pizza boxes