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Can I Recycle Decorative Tissue Paper?

Gifts come in all shapes and sizes. That’s where gift bags and decorative tissue paper come in to help make them special. But you may be wondering if decorative tissue paper can be recycled. 

Let’s dive in to find out.

Is Decorative Tissue Paper Recyclable?

Yes! Decorative tissue paper is recyclable by paper mills. Be sure to check your local guidelines before placing it in your recycling bin.

What if My Tissue Paper is Metallic or Has Glitter?

If your tissue paper is metallic, has glitter or other decorative elements, it isn’t recyclable. Try to reuse it if possible. 

When in doubt, throw it out. Wishcycling -- when we put something in the recycling bin hoping it will be recycled -- disrupts the recycling process if it isn’t recyclable.

My Area Doesn’t Accept Tissue Paper, Now What?

We recommend trying to reuse the tissue paper if you can. You can try to reuse it for gift-wrapping or crafts. Check out How Life Unfolds for some ideas! 

Is Decorative Tissue Paper Sustainable?

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About 80%
of U.S. paper mills use some recycled paper

Yes, decorative tissue paper is sustainable. Paper products are made from trees, which are a renewable resource, and recycled paper.

About 80% of U.S. paper mills use some recycled paper fiber to make renewable products like packaging, office paper, newspaper and paper towels.

Even so, the industry is working to improve its sustainability through innovation and sustainability initiatives.

Explore more about the industry’s recycling and sustainability efforts:

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The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) serves to advance U.S. paper and wood products manufacturers through fact-based public policy and marketplace advocacy. The forest products industry is circular by nature. AF&PA member companies make essential products from renewable and recyclable resources, generate renewable bioenergy and are committed to continuous improvement through the industry’s sustainability initiative —Better Practices, Better Planet 2030: Sustainable Products for a Sustainable Future. The forest products industry accounts for approximately 5% of the total U.S. manufacturing GDP, manufactures about $350 billion in products annually and employs about 925,000 people. The industry meets a payroll of about $65 billion annually and is among the top 10 manufacturing sector employers in 43 states. Visit AF&PA online at afandpa.org or follow us on Twitter @ForestandPaper