Gloucester residents are being urged to use the scrunch test to check whether wrapping paper can be recycled. If it springs back it contains plastic and can’t be recycled.

Paper and Christmas cards covered in glitter are also not recyclable and ribbons, bows and other decorations should be removed before going in the recycling blue sack.

 

Synthetic (plastic) or foil wrapping paper can’t be recycled because it can’t be used in paper recycling. Wrapping paper and greetings cards containing glitter are an issue because unlike ink that is removed during flotation, glitter is not easy to remove during the paper making process and can end up on the finished paper products.

 

Residents are also encouraged to make sure they flatten cardboard boxes and remove any polystyrene.