Five Clever Ways to Recycle Paper Products

In our everyday lives, we are bombarded with junk mail, magazines, holiday cards, cardboard boxes, newspapers, and other such paper products. Some individuals would simply toss them into the trash bin while others would take them to a recycling center. Are there any other possible destinations for these paper goods? Here are five eco-friendly new "assignments" for the mounds of paper that are lurking in your home:

Gift Wrapping Paper

Two recycled paper products that make wonderful gift wrapping paper are previously owned newspapers and paper grocery sacks. You can wrap gifts in newspaper just as you would traditional gift wrap. To use a paper grocery sack, you simply cut the sack along its creases, turn it inside out, and then, decorate it the way that you like.

You can also utilize previously used gift bags for gift giving. You can either use the bags in their present condition or cut them apart and use them as gift wrap. It is up to your personal preference.

Shredded Paper Stuffing for Postage or Moving Boxes

If you own a paper shredder, you can take any of your junk mail, magazines, or any other similar paper items, shred them, and use the shredded pieces as stuffing for packing boxes in which you are mailing or packing items. With the holidays on the horizon, you can cut your costs on buying packaging supplies by this action and help keep more paper out of the landfill.

Boxes for Mailing or Moving Items

Previously used cardboard boxes are very useful for mailing presents or products. If you are sending gifts to loved ones or have your own online business, you can be "green" and cut your expense at the same time by reusing cardboard boxes that you acquire through products that you purchase or friends who wish to get rid of them.

If you or someone that you know is moving, you can use previously used cardboard boxes to pack your beloved belongings safely. Add in your homemade recycled paper stuffing, and you are all set.

Collages

Old magazines provide an interesting array of images for collage ideas. You and your children can simply go through the magazines, select the pictures that you all wish to use, and glue or tape them on a piece of recycled cardboard or card stock in whatever arrangement or pattern that you wish. Children and adults alike can enjoy creating a unique work of art together and be friendly to the environment as well.

Paper Airplanes

Whether they are made from newspaper, junk mail, paper grocery sacks, or pages from a magazine, paper airplanes are always fun to make and fly. You and your family can create winged structures of all different designs and sizes and even have a flying contest to see which one of their masterpieces can travel the farthest. It is inexpensive and "green" family entertainment all at the same time.

Before you toss that mound of paper into the trash or tote it off to the recycling center, you might want to consider one of these alternatives. You can be environmentally friendly and save some time and money in the process.