When it comes to disposing of sensitive documents, many people instinctively tear them up or use a paper shredder before tossing them into their recycling bins. While this seems more environmentally responsible, it isn’t.
Municipal recycling systems are designed to handle intact paper products like newspapers, office sheets, and cardboard—not tiny fragments. When paper is torn or shredded into small pieces, it creates a major challenge for automated sorting equipment. These machines cannot effectively separate small bits of paper from other materials. Instead, shredded or torn paper is often classified as contamination and diverted to the trash stream. The result? Those fragments end up in landfills, contributing to waste rather than being recycled.
Contrast this with Shred Vault’s secure and eco-friendly process. Documents deposited in Shred Vault containers are transported to a high-security facility where they undergo industrial shredding. From there, the shredded material is sent directly to a paper mill—not a municipal recycling center. At the mill, the fibers are repurposed into practical products like paper towels and tissue, ensuring that the paper is truly recycled and given a second life.
By choosing Shred Vault, you’re not only protecting your confidential information—you’re actively supporting a closed-loop recycling system. Instead of adding landfill waste, your destroyed paper becomes useful for everyday items. It’s a smarter, greener solution that aligns security with sustainability.
Ready to make the switch?
Find your nearest Shred Vault location today and start shredding responsibly.
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