How Small Is Too Small To Recycle?

As referenced in a previous blog titled, “Do You Have Recycling Bias?” the term “Recycling Bias” refers to the propensity of people to throw larger or full sheets of paper into the recycling bin while bits and scraps of paper went into the trash.” 

But how small is too small when it comes to recycling? 


Paper and cardboard are usually the commodities in question when speaking of small scraps to throw away or recycle. Glass, plastic, aluminum, and other metals may be crushed but are still in tact as a whole piece when thrown into the recycling.
Small pieces of paper and cardboard can absolutely be recycled, but considering the collection, sorting, and baling processes, it is a possibility that some of them will fall to the floor and not end up in the final bales to be sent to end markets.

Unfortunately, there isn’t a specific standard by which “too small” can be calculated, but the best rule of thumb is if it is recyclable, put it into your recycling bin, no matter the size. This way there’s a good chance that it will end up recycled. If you don’t, there’s a 100% chance that it will end up in the landfill.

For more information on recyclable items visit www.wasteawaygroup.com