Creative Ways to Recycle Shredded Documents

Document shredding is mandatory for businesses dealing with sensitive information that should never get into the wrong hands. Shredding your documents can help prevent identity theft cases. However, since shredded documents cannot be used to make new paper, most businesses end up throwing and burning shredded records in landfills. Even if the paper is a biodegradable material, there are better ways to dispose of shredded documents than dumping them in landfills. This article highlights creative ways businesses can use to recycle shredded documents.

Packaging Material

One way of recycling shredded paper is using it as packaging for delicate material. For instance, if you want to send a fragile present, such as a glass trophy or electronic equipment, for the employee of the month, look no further than shredded paper. Some people spend money on styrofoam and bubble wraps as protective packaging, but they cost money. Shredded paper is inexpensive and performs just as well as bubble wrap in protecting delicate items. You can also use shredded paper to pack items being sent to a storage facility for safekeeping. In addition, shredded documents help retain the condition of items in storage by preventing them from rubbing against each other.

Donate to Animal Shelters and Vets

Veterinary clinics and animal shelters use different materials as animal bedding, and shredded paper is one. Not only do shredded documents feel soft when packed together, but they also help keep small pets, such as kittens and rodents, warm at night. However, some inks can be toxic to animals; therefore, talk to your local vet and animal shelter administrator before donating shredded documents. Shredded documents can also be used as playthings for pets spending the night at a vet. The best part is that vet clinics and animal shelters accept shredded documents in bulk; hence, you do not have to worry about storage issues. Most importantly, you should send thinly shredded documents in different batches to prevent information theft.

Use as Mulch

Businesses with a lawn need all the mulch they can get to keep their gardens and hedges looking healthy and aesthetically appealing. However, rather than spend money on commercial mulch for the small garden on your property, you can use shredded documents as an inexpensive alternative. Shredded documents are easier to decompose by soil microorganisms than other types of mulch. That said, shredded paper is light and can be blown away by the wind. Thus, it is advisable to cover shredded papers with woodchips. It prevents the paper strips from flying away and enhances curb appeal. However, never use shredded glossy documents as mulch because it takes a long time to decompose.

If you would like more ideas of how to dispose or recycle sensitive information safely, contact document shredding companies.