Handy tips on recycling

* Invest a paper-only bin or box in your home or office for easy recycling.

* Keep your paper clean and dry.

* Not all paper can be recycled so get to know your recyclables.

Recyclable paper includes magazines (including the glossy variety), newspapers, brochures, office paper, shredded paper, cardboard such as cereal boxes, toothpaste boxes, medicine boxes, pizza boxes, tissue boxes and carton board, liquid board packaging including beverage and food cartons.

Non-recyclable paper includes wet, soiled paper such as used paper plates, disposable nappies, tissues and toilet paper; foil, gift wrapping, carbon paper; wax-coated, foil-lined or laminated boxes; used cement and dog food bags.

*n Find a recycling collection programme or drop-off point near you by visiting www.mywaste.co.za. Many schools and community organisations earn money from recyclable paper collection. Support these initiatives.

* Support job creation by keeping your recyclables aside for an informal collector who walks your neighbourhood every week. This increases the quality of the recyclables and the collector could earn a little more for better quality.

* Don’t let the recycling pile get too big before you drop it off, keep a box or crate in your boot so you can do a weekly drop-off when you do your shopping or run other errands.

Always keep in mind that you are recycling for a good reason, this should be motivation enough to keep you going.

For more information on paper and paper recycling, visit www.thepaperstory.co.za or www.prasa.co.za.