Recycling Pizza Boxes: Debunking the Myths
Deciding whether to recycle a pizza box has puzzled many of us. When recycling started becoming common, people thought it was a no-brainer to toss those cardboard boxes in the recycle bin. However, warnings about grease contamination led many to believe these boxes were destined for the trash. But good news is here! Research has shown that pizza boxes can be recycled.
A study by the American Forest & Paper Association, based on research from WestRock, found that while grease and cheese can affect the recycling process, their impact is minimal. Typically, pizza boxes contain only 1-2% grease by weight, far below the threshold that would make them problematic. Experts suggest simply removing any leftover cheese, much like how we deal with tape or staples on other cardboard products.
Despite this encouraging information, some municipalities still label pizza boxes as non-recyclable. It’s clear that many people remain unaware of the updated guidelines.
In the U.S., we consume around three billion pizzas each year, resulting in about 600,000 tons of cardboard potentially going to waste. That’s a big environmental concern. Understanding the facts can change this.
It’s a good idea to check your local recycling guidelines. You might find information online, or you can call your recycling center. If they still insist pizza boxes are not recyclable, you could share the WestRock study and the facts from the American Forest & Paper Association. Every small effort counts!
While we await changes, feel free to place those pizza boxes in your recycling bin. If you’re worried about grease, consider ordering your pizza uncut or request a liner to keep the box clean. This way, you help ensure more cardboard gets recycled, making a positive impact on our environment.
In summary, recycling pizza boxes is not just a myth. With a bit of awareness and action, we can help change the narrative for good. For more details, you can read guidelines from the American Forest & Paper Association.
