Paper Recycling

This activity and explanation show how paper is recycled, both industrially and at home. Paper fibers can be broken down into pulp, cleaned, and re-formed into new paper products, reducing the need for tree harvesting and helping conserve natural resources.

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

How to make recycled paper (+ mould & deckle diy) | Tutorial - NevermindPaper:

How to Make Recycled Paper (For Kids) - Adventure Family Journal:

📄 Paper Recycling - Stephanie Collins: https://recycleright.wa.gov.au/paper-recycling/

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.)