Shredded paper is one of the most misunderstood items in home recycling, and a viral TikTok binman has now explained that many UK councils reject it outright, urging households to stop placing it in their paper bins.
Why shredded paper is often not recyclable
Ashley, known online as The No1 Binman, has told households to "stop putting shredded paper in your paper bin". He explained that shredded paper is not recyclable because it has been broken down too much, making it too costly and labour-intensive for standard recycling bins.
He said: "It's [shredded paper] not recyclable because you broke it down too much. It's too much effort and costs too much money to recycle it in your normal [recycling] bins. So don't put it in there."
Impact on binmen and recommended disposal
Ashley also highlighted the difficulties shredded paper causes for collection crews. He said: "When we tip it when it's cold, windy, and wet, it goes everywhere, and then we have to try and get it off the floor, sweeping it up - it all sticks to the floor. It's horrible."
Instead, he recommends disposing of shredded paper in general waste bins, as it often cannot be recycled anyway. For households whose local council does accept it, Ashley advises placing the shredded paper in a paper bag or similar container so it does not scatter.
Limited recycling options
Shredded paper can be recycled in limited circumstances, but not all local authorities will accept it, as some paper mills are unable to process it. Shredding weakens the paper's fibres and can create issues at mills, including maintenance problems and fire hazard risks.
If local authorities do not collect it for recycling, households can put it in general waste, drop it off at a paper bank, or place non-glossy shredded paper at the bottom of a food waste recycling bin to absorb liquid and prevent dripping. Shredded paper can also be added to a home compost heap, though coloured or glossy paper should be avoided as it may contain chemicals damaging to plants.
