[SK] How to use Christmas packaging and how best to recycle it?

After Christmas, we are left with a huge amount of boxes and wrapping paper at home. The question is, what to do with it? The first option is to sort it into a container. But which one? And what are the other ways to recycle Christmas packaging?

How to sort Christmas packaging: focus on paper

If you decide to throw Christmas paper away, you should know that not all paper can be recycled. This is because most of it contains a high percentage of colours, is coated and made of different materials.

Mixed municipal waste includes packaging:

• Coated paper.
• Waxed paper.
• Glossy paper with a special coating.
• Translucent paper.
• Soiled wrapping paper.

However, wrapping paper that is more environmentally friendly and can be recycled is also available. However, there are also those that are decorated with different motifs and do not look so austere. You can also use plain brown wrapping paper, which you can decorate according to your own imagination.

Sorted paper containers include:

• Uncoated wrapping paper.
• Handmade wrapping paper.
• Paper that is not soiled.

Wrapping paper does not have to go straight into the bin

If you’re sorry to throw that beautiful, shiny and colourful wrapping paper in the bin, you can put it to another use.

Tips on how to use used Christmas paper:

• As filling material for boxes.
• For various creative creations (e.g. cards, bookmarks, confetti or Christmas chains).
• For making covers for books or textbooks.

Where to throw away cardboard boxes?

Cardboard boxes belong in the blue paper bin. However, it is advisable to dismantle them thoroughly first, otherwise they take up too much space. The pieces of cardboard that remain on the boxes do not interfere in any way with the sorting process. However, be careful if the boxes are heavily soiled or greasy. In this case, dispose of them in the municipal waste.

Another option is to donate the boxes to a local e-shop, for example, which could make further use of them. You can find a list of places where you can take the boxes online. However, they must not be damaged.

Home recycling of cardboard boxes

If you have enough space, store a few boxes. They are useful for storing various items, food or when you need to send a parcel. You’ll appreciate the larger ones if you’re moving. To keep the boxes from getting in your way too much, separate them and store them folded or put them inside each other.

What to do next with cardboard boxes:

• Suitable for creating with children and for so-called DIY projects (photo frames, masks, dollhouses, etc.)
• They can be made into various closet organizers.

Packaging and recycling symbols

The following abbreviations are most commonly encountered:

• PAP – paper
• GL – glass
• PET, PP or PS – different types of plastics
• ALU – aluminium
• PAP – beverage cartons

The marking of the recycling packaging tells you where the product belongs. These markings inform you what material the product is made of and which container you can throw it in.