Can wrapping paper be recycled?

If you love giving and receiving gifts, but don't want to contribute to waste, you may have wondered whether wrapping paper is recyclable. The short answer is pretty straightforward, yes, as long as it's made of 100% paper!

Most gift wrapping paper can be recycled.

All paper can be recycled, and this includes gift wrap made of paper. As long as it's not cellophane or plastic, and doesn't contain plastic or embellishments like glitter or foil, gift wrapping paper CAN be recycled! So don't hesitate to re-use or recycle your paper gift wrapping paper to benefit the environment and reduce waste.

How can you tell if the gift wrapping paper you have can be recycled? Follow our simple guide below to see whether yours passes the recyclability test below.

 

Which wrapping paper can be recycled?

In Australia, all paper that fits the below criteria can be recycled in your yellow-lid council bin! If you're ever unsure or want council-specific information about what can be recycled in your area, just check the RecycleMate website. It's really easy to use, just pop in your location and search for wrapping paper.

• If you can scrunch the paper into a ball
• If you can tear the paper easily
• If the paper doesn't contain glitter or foil embellishments
• If it's 100% paper - not cellophane or plastic (see if it passes the scrunch and tear test!)

Then your wrapping paper can be recycled!

 

 

Why recycle wrapping paper?

As well as reducing waste, recycling paper is important because it:

1. Saves Trees - Habitat for Wildlife: Recycling paper reduces the need for virgin wood pulp, which helps preserve forests. Trees play a vital role in absorbing carbon dioxide and providing oxygen, and protecting them helps combat climate change. By recycling paper, fewer trees need to be cut down. This helps protect wildlife habitats and maintains biodiversity.

2. Reduces Energy Consumption: The process of recycling paper typically uses less energy compared to producing paper from raw materials. This reduction in energy usage lowers greenhouse gas emissions and helps mitigate global warming. You can read more about this process here: Paper, Print & The Environment.

3. Decreases Water Usage: Paper production from recycled materials generally requires less water compared to making paper from fresh wood. This helps conserve water resources and reduces pollution of water rivers and oceans.

4. Minimises Waste to Landfill: Paper takes up a significant portion of landfill space. When paper is recycled, it helps reduce the volume of waste sent to landfills, which can extend the lifespan of these sites and reduce associated environmental impacts.

5. Reduces Pollution: The recycling process often produces fewer pollutants than the production of new paper. This includes less air and water pollution, contributing to a healthier environment.

6. Encourages a Circular Economy: Recycling paper supports a circular economy, where materials are reused and recycled, reducing the need for new resources and promoting sustainability.

7. Reduces Carbon Footprint: Overall, recycling paper helps lower the carbon footprint associated with paper production and disposal, contributing to broader efforts to combat climate change.

Recycling wrapping paper helps individuals contribute to a more sustainable planet and preserve forests for our future.

 

Is wrapping paper biodegradable?

Yes, all wrapping paper is biodegradable, as long as it is made of 100% paper and passes the scrunch and tear test, wrapping paper is biodegradable and will break down in home compost or your green council bin. If you tear the paper into smaller pieces first, you can help it break down more easily.

 

What to do with gift wrapping paper that isn't recyclable?

If you have received a gift with paper that doesn't fit the recyclability test, consider re-using the gift wrap to give it a second life. You could also get crafty with your paper, and use it to cover school books or to add some colour to your journal or scrapbooking.

 

Alternatives to traditional wrapping paper

There are many creative and eco-friendly alternatives to traditional paper gift wrapping that can save the planet and save you money as well. Here are some ideas:

1. Upcycle Old Gift Wrap: Recycle the wrapping from previous gifts. It’s eco-friendly and can be quite stylish with a little creativity. We like to add a little twine or ribbon to cover over any folds or creases. Just be sure to unwrap your gifts carefully so you can save the paper for later!

2. Fabric Wraps: Scour op shops for scarves, fabric or use a tea towel. Furoshiki, the Japanese art of wrapping gifts in fabric, is a versatile and stylish option. Need a little help to get started? See our Guide To Furoshiki Wrapping With A Tea Towel here.

3. Reusable Tote Bags: Cotton tote bags or reusable shopping bags can serve as both wrapping and part of the gift. They come in many designs and sizes.

4. Vintags Maps, Sheet Music or Newspapers: Give a vintage or personal touch with old maps, newspapers, or magazine pages. It will give your gift a unique look, and could also be a good conversation starter!

5. Decorative Boxes: Use beautiful boxes that can be reused or repurposed. You can also decorate plain boxes with paint, stickers, or fabric.

6. Brown Paper Bags: These can be dressed up with stamps, drawings, or stickers. They’re sturdy and can be customised easily.

7. Jars and Containers: For smaller gifts, consider jars or tin cans. They can be decorated with ribbons or labels and reused for storage.

8. Baskets: These can be both functional and cute and you'll find plenty of baskets in op shops. Fill them with the gift and tie a little Hemp Twine for an eco-friendly finishing touch.
Each of these options not only reduces waste but can add a unique touch to your gift so don't be afraid to experiment.

Recycling wrapping paper doesn't have to be complicated - with a little knowledge we can spread the word about how easy it is to recycle, upcycle or create our own gift wrap. Happy wrapping!

Want to be sure that your wrapping paper can be recycled? Explore our 100% Recyclable Wrapping Paper here.