Comprehensive & responsible paper recycling services

We offer tailored solutions to UK businesses of all sizes, ensuring efficient collection and processing of your paper waste, contributing to a more sustainable future.

Bales of recycled cardboard at recycling depot.

Collecting, sorting & recycling commercial paper waste

In today’s environmentally conscious business landscape, responsible paper recycling is crucial. Businesses generate significant amounts of paper waste, from office documents and printer waste to trim and various grades of paper and cardboard. Recognising that nearly 50% of typical business waste consists of paper products, we offer tailored commercial paper recycling services to help you minimise your environmental footprint and maximise resource recovery. We ensure that your recyclable paper is collected, sorted, processed and directed towards downstream pulping and recycling, either within the UK or through reputable export markets.

Our services cater to a diverse range of sectors, including offices, retail premises, local authority buildings, industrial and automotive facilities and healthcare settings. We also offer secure shredding services for confidential waste paper.

Let our experienced team simplify your business’s paper waste management and minimise landfill contributions.

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sheets of paper are used by the average office worker every year

gallons of water and 17 trees are saved by recycling 1 tonne of paper

tonnes of paper packaging waste is recycled each year in the UK

A lorry load of paper for recycling at a recycling depot.

What type of commercial paper waste is recyclable?

In the UK, a wide variety of commercial paper can be recycled, contributing to a more sustainable business environment. These include:

Office paper, including standard printing paper, both white and coloured, as well as a range of envelopes. This also covers items like letters, reports, and general documentation
Newspapers and magazines, their fibres are valuable for creating new paper products
While often separated, cardboard is a significant component of commercial paper recycling. This includes corrugated cardboard boxes and other cardboard packaging
Mixed paper and certain types of wrapping paper (excluding adhesive labels, tracing paper and those with foil or glitter) and other paper packaging

Paper contaminated with food or grease, photographic paper, laminated paper and foil-lined paper cannot be recycled.

Speak to our team

A Riverdale Recycling branded compactor container.

Compactor containers

A Riverdale Recycling van in the carpark outside the main office.

Container options

We offer flexible and comprehensive collection and storage solutions tailored to your business’s specific needs.

For large-scale operations, we provide roll-on-off containers (40yd³) and roll-on-off compactor units (40yd³) to maximise storage and minimise collection frequency. For smaller businesses, we offer convenient 140-1100 litre wheelie bins, as well as 8yd³ and 10yd³ FELs.

Discuss your options

What is the process of recycling paper?

Recycled paper is collected, sorted, shredded, and mixed with water to create pulp. This pulp is cleaned, de-inked if necessary and refined. The resulting fibres are then pressed, dried, and rolled into new paper products. Our team ensures efficient handling throughout this process.

What are the benefits of recycling paper?

For businesses, recycling paper enhances your corporate social responsibility, improves your public image and can lower waste disposal costs. Recycling paper significantly reduces deforestation, conserves energy and water, minimises landfill waste and decreases greenhouse gas emissions. It also helps create jobs and supports a more sustainable, circular economy.

What does paper get recycled into?

Recycled paper is mainly used to create new paper and cardboard products like newspapers and packaging. When fibres degrade, they’re repurposed into items like egg cartons or used for crafts. As a last resort, unusable fibres can be converted into bioenergy.

Can you recycle my confidential paperwork?

Yes. Beyond our standard paper recycling services, we offer a dedicated and certified secure shredding service. We ensure your confidential documents are completely destroyed, protecting your sensitive information and complying with data protection regulations. Our process is thorough and auditable, giving you peace of mind.

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Serving UK businesses for over 40 years

We have built a legacy of expert waste management, driving innovation in sustainable recycling solutions.

Operating a Zero Waste to Landfill policy

We strive to eliminate landfill reliance through meticulous sorting, processing and innovative waste-to-energy services.

North East based, delivering nationwide services

We're a North East company with a national footprint, supporting businesses across the UK.

Expert knowledge with a personalised service

We tailor our waste management solutions to meet your unique business needs, offering ongoing support.

Riverdale Recycling lorry in the recycling yard.

Let's explore your recycling options

We’ll help you develop a tailored waste management solution that meets your business goals and environmental objectives. We’re here to answer your questions and provide expert guidance.

Get in touch with us