Cardboard waste represents one of the most collected recyclable materials in Westminster. It's also one of the most recyclable materials available with cardboard packaging on the market today containing up to 75% recycled content1. Whether you run a retail shop, restaurant, office, or warehouse, opting for separate paper and card collections is cheaper than putting it into mixed recycling.
Why cardboard recycling matters
Every year, businesses in Westminster generate tonnes of cardboard packaging from deliveries, product shipments, and daily operations. When recycled properly, cardboard can be reprocessed up to seven times, creating new packaging materials and reducing the need for virgin materials.
Best practices for responsible cardboard recycling
- Break down and flatten boxes: Always flatten cardboard boxes before disposal. This simple step maximises space in recycling bins, reduces collection frequency, and lowers transportation emissions. Train your staff to break down boxes immediately rather than letting them accumulate.
- Keep cardboard clean and dry: Contaminated cardboard cannot be recycled. Remove all packaging materials, tape, and labels where possible. Never mix food-soiled cardboard with recyclable materials and always keep cardboard out of the rain as this will destroy the material making it unrecycable. Pizza boxes and greasy packaging should go in general waste.
- Separate different materials: Waxed or plastic-coated cardboard requires different processing. Keep these materials separate from standard corrugated cardboard to maintain recycling stream quality and put them in either your mixed recycling or general waste depending on their specifications.
- Establish a collection system: Designate specific areas for cardboard collection within your premises. Clearly put your Commercial Waste cardboard tape on the flattened cardboard for regular collection schedules to prevent overflow and contamination.
Partner with professionals
We provide tailored cardboard recycling solutions for businesses of all sizes. We supply appropriate bins, offer flexible collection schedules, and ensure your cardboard reaches certified recycling facilities. Our team can conduct waste audits to identify opportunities for improved recycling rates and cost savings. Furthermore, we operate as a non-profit council service, meaning all earnings go directly back into the community. We don’t charge VAT, so our prices are 20% cheaper than private waste operators.
Compliance and sustainability
Businesses have legal obligations under waste duty of care regulations. Proper cardboard recycling demonstrates environmental responsibility, enhances your sustainability credentials, and appeals to eco-conscious customers.
By implementing these straightforward practices, your Westminster business can contribute to a circular economy while managing waste efficiently. Contact us today on 020 7641 6180 or commercialwaste@westminster.gov.uk to discuss customised cardboard recycling solutions that work for your business operations and budget.
1ReLondon. London’s packaging footprint: An analysis of packaging material flows, greenhouse gas emissions and levers for climate action in London. 2024. Available from: https://relondon.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Londons-packaging-footprint-report.pdf
