Can You Recycle Used Kleenex Tissues? Unraveling the Recyling Process and Alternatives
Although tissues are made of paper, they are often not considered recyclable due to their short fibres. However, the practicality of this rule varies depending on the specific conditions and facilities available. This article delves into the complexities of recycling used Kleenex tissues and presents alternative methods that can be employed.
The Theoretical and Practical Aspects of Recyling Kleenex Tissues
Theoretically, yes, used Kleenex tissues can be recycled. However, the practical execution of this process is fraught with challenges. According to many experts, a significant quantity of tissue paper (thousands or even tonnes) free of any contaminants, such as grease, oil, cosmetics, or colours, must be available within a limited distance of the recycling facility to ensure effective processing.
In practice, the best alternatives to traditional recycling include home composting or mulching, waste-to-energy (WTE), and landfill. These methods offer a more practical solution, particularly for those residing in areas lacking the necessary infrastructure for advanced recycling processes.
From Waste to Fertilizer: A Conversion Through Sewage Treatment
For those interested in leveraging the full potential of used tissues, the sewage treatment process presents an innovative approach. Certain advanced sewage treatment plants, like the one in our small town, process used tissues and convert them into valuable compost. The local community is accustomed to this process, with children even referring to it as the “shit machine.”
Once processed, the used tissues are trucked to a nearby facility where they are transformed into fertilizer. While the specifics of the process, including the machinery and chemical treatments, are largely unknown, it is clear that such a transformation is feasible. The city owns both the sewage treatment and recycling facilities, and the sale of this fertilizer covers a considerable portion of the operational costs. This approach is an eco-friendly and economically beneficial solution for waste management.
The Transformation of Used Tissues into Paper Products
Used Kleenex tissues can be repurposed into paper products. The process involves breaking down the tissues into pulp, cleaning them, and then running them through a paper-making machine. This recycling process is not limited to tissues; historically, any fibrous material has been used in paper-making, including straw, sawdust, old rags, and even sanitary products and blood-stained bandages during World War II.
During the war, a friend recounted his experience working in a U.K. Paper making company where the scarcity of fibrous materials led to the innovative use of various sources. He vividly remembered having to work in a large boiler, treating the sodden mass with caustic soda and using a pronged fork to remove it. Though the conditions were far from ideal, the process allowed for the continued operation of the machines and the production of new paper products.
Conclusion: Sustainable Waste Management Practices
While the traditional recycling of used Kleenex tissues may not be feasible for most households, exploring alternative methods such as home composting, waste-to-energy conversion, and local recycling facilities can significantly contribute to sustainable waste management practices. These methods not only reduce waste but also provide practical and eco-friendly solutions for the disposal of used tissues.