A bin man has issued a warning to those who were planning to bin wrapping and gift bags in the recycling bin without making certain checks
Wrapping paper from Christmas being thrown away in the bin
When it comes to Christmas, the flurry of presents can be a highlight, but the carnage of wrapping paper scraps that is left over can fill up even the most spacious of bins.
Wrapping paper has a bit of a misleading name at times, as many options available are not just paper, but have plastic elements. This means that unfortunately they cannot be recycled.
A bin man has also taken to TikTok to share some advice ahead of unwrapping season. “Most contain foil, plastic, glitter and glue – so please pop them into your brown general waste bin,” he said, reports The Mirror.
“It’s the glitter and foil on them. If it’s just plain old brown paper then that’s fine.”
MyWaste.ie also said that plain wrapping paper can be recycled, but shinny or metallized paper can’t be, and have to be disposed of in the general waste bin. They add that using newspapers is quirky and a clever recyclable alternative.
“Shiny and metallic gift wrap is generally a composite material that cannot be recycled so should be avoided where possible but if you do have this type place it in the general waste bin. If in good condition, bows and ribbons should be removed but not thrown out.
“Try to reuse wrapping paper when possible or add a personal touch by using something like a person favourite old magazine instead.
“Removed bows and ribbons can be used as decorations or to adorn other gifts in future. If you are going to use bows or ribbons make sure to use ones made of cloth that can be reused year after year.”
Plastic tape, including sellotape, can’t be recycled, so be sure to remove it from wrapping paper or cardboard boxes first.
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