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That’s a wrap Is your gift wrap recyclable?

Your Challenge

Did you know that not all gift wrap is recyclable? Every year wrapping paper can cause confusion and our recycling may go to landfill if we get it wrong!

For special occasions that require wrapped gifts, make sure you use recyclable gift wrap. Here are some tips:

  • Avoid tissue paper (which can’t be recycled)
  • Use wrapping paper that’s not glittery or foil-backed (i.e. the papers that have gold or silver metallic elements on them) as neither can be recycled.
  • Sticky tape can’t be recycled so always make sure it’s removed from boxes or wrapping paper before recycling.
  • Make sure your wrapping paper is sustainably sourced and not contributing to deforestation. Look for the FSC logo, or for 100% recycled paper.
  • You could also reduce your wrapping footprint by using other items to wrap your presents, such as fabric (which can be reused or turned into other things).
  • Make your own wrapping by using newspaper, old brown paper, or magazine pages for a unique alternative.
  • Or, you can reuse wrapping paper from presents you have received.   

Why you're doing this

Most gift wrap ends up in landfill. Lots of wrapping has non-recyclable additives like glitter, foil, laminate and toxic dyes. Very thin paper or tissue paper has too few fibres to recycle, so it needs to go in the bin. 

How you'll make a difference

Use your purchasing power to choose only recyclable wrapping paper and send a message to paper companies that sustainable is the future.

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