Is shredded paper recyclable?
Shredded paper is made of the same material as whole sheets, so it can be recycled where a collector or paper mill accepts it. Because it is loose and light, collectors often handle it differently from whole sheets or cardboard, for example by asking for it to be bagged or kept separate.
The GOV.UK workplace recycling guidance requires every workplace in England to separate paper and card from other waste. It also says to check with your collector about whether an item is accepted. Shredded paper is one of the items where the answer depends on the collector.
Shredded paper and workplace recycling rules
GOV.UK workplace recycling guidance states that paper and card must be collected separately from plastic, metal and glass, unless the collector has completed a written co-collection assessment.
GOV.UK also states that significantly contaminated recyclables may be disposed of as general waste after discussion with the collector. Shredded paper mixed with food, liquids or other materials may fall into this group.
How to dispose of shredded paper in a business
Businesses generally dispose of shredded paper in one of two ways, depending on what was shredded.
Non-confidential shredded paper
Paper shredded for convenience, such as packaging fill or general office paper, can be collected through a paper recycling service where the collector accepts it. Our paper recycling service collects paper from businesses across the UK.
Confidential paper
Paper containing personal or sensitive information is also covered by data protection law. The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) explains that the UK GDPR security principle requires "appropriate security of the personal data", using appropriate technical or organisational measures. The ICO guide to data security lists the way paper and electronic waste is disposed of as part of physical security, and notes that many security incidents involve hard-copy records being disposed of incorrectly.
Office shredders vary in how small they cut paper. Many organisations use a secure destruction service for confidential paper so that the whole process, from collection to destruction, is recorded.
How our secure destruction service works
Our secure destruction service collects confidential paper from your premises. The material is taken by a licensed carrier to a licensed destruction facility, where it is shredded so the information cannot be read or reconstructed. Destruction always comes first, and the shredded paper is then recycled wherever possible.
Each client receives a certificate of destruction confirming the material was securely destroyed. It is issued with the waste transfer note, and both form part of your records.
Paperwork for shredded paper collections
Shredded paper is business waste, so the waste duty of care applies. GOV.UK states that a business must complete a waste transfer note for each load of waste that leaves its premises and keep a copy for 2 years. A season ticket can cover repeated collections of the same waste with the same carrier for up to a year.
The waste transfer note includes a waste classification code. GOV.UK's guidance on classifying packaging waste and recyclables lists separate codes for paper and cardboard packaging and for other paper and card. Classification is the waste producer's legal duty, so speak to our team if you are unsure how your paper waste is described.
What we need to know before a collection
Before we can quote for or arrange a collection, our team needs:
- whether the paper is confidential or non-confidential
- whether it is already shredded, or whole documents, files or archive boxes
- approximate volume, such as the number of bags, boxes or consoles
- how often collections are needed
- the collection location and access details
Rules in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
This article describes the position in England. Workplace recycling rules differ elsewhere in the UK, regulated by SEPA, Natural Resources Wales and the Northern Ireland Environment Agency. UK GDPR applies across the UK.
Frequently asked questions
Can you recycle shredded paper?
Yes, where the collector accepts it. Shredded paper is still paper, but acceptance varies between collections.
Can shredded paper go in a workplace paper recycling bin?
GOV.UK workplace recycling guidance requires paper and card to be separated in workplaces in England and says to check with your collector about specific items, including shredded paper.
Is shredded confidential paper still covered by data protection law?
The ICO lists the disposal of paper waste as part of the physical security that the UK GDPR security principle requires.
Do I get proof that confidential paper was destroyed?
Through our secure destruction service, each client receives a certificate of destruction with the waste transfer note.
Sources
- GOV.UK: Workplace recycling in England
- ICO: A guide to data security
- GOV.UK: Waste transfer notes
- GOV.UK: Packaging waste and recyclables, how to classify
Speak to our team
To discuss your waste, contact our team on 0845 366 9306 or email recycle@collectandrecycle.com.
This article is for general information only and does not constitute professional or legal advice. Waste producers are legally responsible for correctly classifying their waste. For guidance on your specific waste, please contact our team.