Most municipal recycling programs (including Richardson’s) accept many types of paper such as newspapers, magazines and office paper, but candy wrappers are not considered common paper and Richardson’s Not accepted by Republic Services, our local recycler. Candy wrappers are usually made of “multi-material packaging” and cannot be converted into new paper. Additionally, most wrapping paper is too small to be recycled. Nothing smaller than a credit card should be placed in Richardson’s blue recycling bag.
Instead, throw the wrapper in the regular trash or keep it for a special “Trick or Trash” collection program, a partnership with the National Wildlife Federation that sends free collection boxes to businesses, schools and community organizations. . The program uses the plastic extracted from the wrapper to make dog bags for animal shelters, and the paper and aluminum components can be recycled. Richardson’s collection sites currently include the UT Dallas Sustainability Office (for students and staff) and Stinson Elementary School, 4201 Greenfield Dr. In Dallas, the Children’s Aquarium at Fair Park is the collection site.
www.cor.net/recycling
www.trickortrash.com
