Environmental Benefits of Secure Paper Recycling

Security Meets Sustainability

Modern document destruction isn't just about security—it's about environmental responsibility. Professional shredding services ensure sensitive documents are destroyed AND recycled, creating a closed-loop system that benefits both your business and the planet.

The Environmental Impact of Paper

Paper Production Statistics:

• 1 tonne of paper requires 17 trees
• Paper manufacturing uses 7,000 gallons of water per tonne
• Paper production is the 4th largest industrial energy user

Recycling Benefits:

• Recycling 1 tonne of paper saves 17 trees
• Uses 70% less energy than virgin paper production
• Reduces water consumption by 50%
• Decreases air pollution by 74%

How Secure Shredding Enables Recycling

Unlike household paper recycling, commercially shredded documents go through a specialised process:

1. Secure Collection

Documents are collected in locked containers, maintaining confidentiality

2. Cross-Cut Shredding

Industrial shredders reduce paper to small particles (typically 15mm or less)

3. Baling

Shredded material is compressed into bales for transport

4. Direct Mill Transfer

Bales go directly to paper mills—not mixed waste facilities

5. Pulping and Reprocessing

Shredded material becomes new paper products

Closed-Loop vs Open-Loop Recycling

Closed-Loop (What We Do):

• Documents → Shredding → Mill → New Paper Products
• No exposure to general waste streams
• Guaranteed recycling of 100% of material

Open-Loop (What to Avoid):

• Documents → General Recycling → Sorting Facility → Unknown Destination
• Security gaps at sorting facilities
• Material may end up in landfill

Your Environmental Contribution

By using WEST SHRED, your business:

• Keeps 100% of paper out of landfill
• Reduces demand for virgin wood pulp
• Lowers carbon footprint associated with paper production
• Receives recycling certificates documenting environmental contribution

Corporate Sustainability Reporting

Our services support ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) reporting by providing:

• Documented tonnage of recycled material
• Carbon offset estimates
• Landfill diversion statistics
• Recycling certificates for sustainability reports