Can I Recycle Wax Paper?

Wax Paper, or waxed paper, is just that…a single layer of paper coated with a thin layer of wax.  It has many uses in the kitchen as a moisture resistant wrapping for food to keep it from getting soggy, among other uses. After using it, however, what should be done with it?

The process of recycling paper doesn’t allow for sticky, glue-like, greasy or waxy substances on the paper. When paper products are recycled, they are mixed with water and turned into a slurry. Since we all know water and oil don’t mix, the issue is clear.

Once paper is soaked with grease, as in the case of the bottom of pizza boxes, it is considered contaminated since it is virtually impossible to get the grease, or a multitude of other contaminants, out of it.  It is also improbable, at best, to get the wax layer off of paper in order to recycle it in the conventional way.  In the landfill, however, it would take months to decompose.

Look for wax paper that uses soy wax rather than paraffin wax; soy wax is derived from soybean oil, a renewable resource, while paraffin wax is derived from petroleum, which is non-renewable. And of course, reduce your use.  Use just what you need and reuse it whenever it is possible.

If you are a Borden Waste-Away customer, wax paper is not recyclable and is considered a trash item.  If you are not a Borden customer, check with your local recycling facility or solid waste management district to find out how to dispose of wax paper in your area.

For more information on recycling visit www.wasteawaygroup.com.