======Paper Recycling======


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====Summary====                   
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====Procedure====  
  - Collect used paper and sort it into recyclable and non-recyclable types (avoid glossy coated paper and heavily soiled paper).  
  - Shred or tear the paper into small pieces.  
  - Soak the paper pieces in warm water until soft.  
  - Blend the soaked paper into a pulp using a blender or by hand.  
  - Spread the pulp onto a screen or mesh to drain excess water.  
  - Press and flatten the pulp, then leave it to dry until it becomes a new sheet of paper.  
  - (Optional) Add flower petals, seeds, or coloring to customize the recycled paper.  




====Links==== 
How to make recycled paper (+ mould & deckle diy) | Tutorial - NevermindPaper: 
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How to Make Recycled Paper (For Kids) - Adventure Family Journal: 
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📄 Paper Recycling - Stephanie Collins: [[https://recycleright.wa.gov.au/paper-recycling/]]\\


====Variations====
  * Try making seed paper that can be planted after use.  
  * Add natural dyes to create colored recycled paper.  
  * Use different mesh sizes to test how thickness affects drying and strength.  
  * Try papier maché projects using recycled paper pulp.



====Safety Precautions====
  * Adult supervision required when using scissors or a blender.  
  * Avoid adding glossy, coated, or chemically treated paper to compost or homemade paper.  
  * Wash hands after handling paper pulp.



====Questions to Consider====
  * Why is it important to recycle paper instead of always making new paper? (It saves trees, reduces deforestation, and conserves water and energy.)  
  * What materials can contaminate paper recycling? (Plastic coatings, food residue, adhesives, or too-small shredded pieces.)  
  * Why can shredded paper be composted but not recycled in bins? (Tiny bits scatter easily and contaminate other recyclables, but they add carbon when composted.)  
  * How does paper recycling help reduce climate change impacts? (It preserves forests, which store carbon and regulate the water cycle.)  
  * What are some creative ways to reuse paper at home before recycling? (Scrap paper for notes, collages, crafts, bookbinding, or papier maché.)