Buzz
Every year, the U.S. generates hundreds of millions of tons of waste, much of which consists of materials that could be recycled. However, when it’s unclear whether an item is recyclable, some people choose to discard it, even if a recycling bin is nearby. Many old magazines are thrown out, but they don't have to be. Despite being treated with various additives, glossy magazine pages can be recycled with other paper products.
As reported by Treehugger, glossy catalogs and magazines are made from coated paper. After wood fiber is processed into regular paper, it receives a shiny finish from a special coating like fine clay. The clay fills the spaces between the wood fibers and creates a smooth, uniform surface. Since these coatings are natural, most magazines can be recycled without any issue. At the recycling plant, the gloss and ink will be removed, and the paper will be mixed with fresh wood pulp to create new items.
When recycling magazines, there are a few important things to remember. The plastic sleeve that some magazines come in, along with any perfume or makeup samples inside, cannot be recycled and should be discarded. While most magazines are coated with natural substances, some use polyethylene (PE) coating, a plastic that cannot be recycled. To determine if a page has PE coating, try tearing it; if it tears easily, it has a natural gloss and is recyclable. If the page tears with difficulty, it likely contains PE coating and should be thrown away. Paper that doesn’t crumple when squeezed in your hand is likely treated with plastic.
Once you've confirmed that your magazines and catalogs are ready for recycling, you can dispose of them alongside your newspapers, junk mail, and other paper products. Don't forget, those old magazines aren't the only paper recyclables in your home that might be overlooked. Here's the best method to recycle cardboard pizza boxes.
