Dear Recycle Lady
Last week you listed several kinds of tape, but packing tape was not on the list. What about packing tape? Is it recyclable?
Packing Tape User
Dear Packing Tape User,
Good catch. Packing tape is another self-adhesive tape that is used extensively by businesses that ship products. Packing tape is also used for more than just packing as it is a versatile tape and comes in various colors and prints. It is a strong tape that remains tight under all conditions. There are several different kinds of adhesives used on the back of packing tape. The adhesive that is most commonly used by business is a natural rubber adhesive, due to its ability to withstand extreme heat and cold. It holds tight on a variety of surfaces, can be used on recycled cardboard, and under tough environmental conditions. Two other kinds of adhesives that are used on packing tape are Hot Melt (Synthetic Rubber) and Acrylic. Like all kinds of tape, packing tape is recyclable on cardboard, but not on paper or magazines.
Dear Recycle Lady,
If I can’t determine whether or not a piece of paper is office paper or slick paper, which bin should I put it in? Office paper or Magazines?
Need Clarification
Dear Need Clarification,
Good question. If you are uncertain as to the kind of paper you have, put it in the magazine/slicks bin. It is more forgiving of properties during processing than office paper. You might have the same question about aerosol cans. Are they steel or are they aluminum? When in doubt, put the aerosol can in the steel can bin. Like paper, steel can processing is more lenient than aluminum can processing.
Dear Recycle Lady,
We are getting ready to decorate for Christmas and I have found several strings of older non-LED and LED Christmas lights that are missing bulbs, are all tangled up, or don’t work anymore. Can these light strings be recycled?
Lights That Sparkle
Dear Lights That Sparkle,
Yes, all Christmas lights, regardless of condition, can be recycled as the copper within the cords has value. Take them to the Recycling Center and put them in the yellow bin that sits on the porch near the sign that says Aluminum Cans.
Who Knew? Operation Turtle Takeoff flies endangered sea turtles to warm waters. With ocean temperatures rising, turtles are expanding their range farther north in summer, making it less likely that they will be able to reach the warmer, southern waters by fall. When water temperatures drop too quickly, the turtles can become cold-stunned and need rescue for survival.
Happy Turkey Day! Among the things I am thankful for this Thanksgiving are the many readers who ask interesting recycling questions and challenge me to find an answer. Here’s wishing everyone a wonderful day with family and friends, good conversations, good food, and safe travels.
Have questions about recycling, or interesting information about recycling? Send questions or requests Recyclelady7@gmail.com. Dear Recycle Lady is sponsored jointly by the Greenbrier Recycling Center and Greenworks Recycling.
