Recycling a three-ring binder might seem challenging at first, but with a bit of effort, you can ensure that most of its components are properly recycled or repurposed. Here’s a simple guide to help you through the process of breaking down a binder into its recyclable parts.
According to Univenture, 50 to 60 million binders are sold in the U.S. annually. This substantial number highlights the importance of properly recycling these items to minimize environmental impact. Like many products, binders are a combination of materials that cannot be processed together. The plastic or vinyl cover, metal rings, and cardboard or plastic liner of the binder must be separated before sending the materials for recycling.
This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase an item through one of these links, we receive a small commission that helps fund our Recycling Directory.
Step 1: Separate the Metal Rings
Remove the metal binder rings: Start by separating the metal rings from the binder cover. Most binders have screws or rivets holding the metal in place, which you can easily unscrew or carefully pry apart.
Recycle the Metal: Place the metal rings in your curbside recycling bin if your local program accepts metal, or drop them off at a local metal recycler.
Step 2: Handle the Cover
Cut the Cover: Using a utility knife or scissors, slice the plastic or vinyl part of the cover along the top or side to remove the supporting plastic or cardboard inside. You’ll need to separate the outer layer, which is often plastic, PVC, or vinyl, from the inner cardboard or plastic sheet.
Recycle the cardboard: If the inside of your binder cover is cardboard, place it in your paper recycling bin. Alternatively, consider reusing the cardboard for crafts or around your home.
Recycle the plastic: If it is made of plastic, the inside of the cover can likely be placed in your recycling bin with other rigid plastics.
Step 3: Dispose of the Plastic, PVC, or Vinyl
Check Local Recycling Options: Plastic, PVC, and vinyl covers are not always accepted in curbside recycling programs. Visit Earth911 Search, select the material of your cover, and enter your ZIP Code to find local recycling drop-off locations.
Drop-off or Trash: If your curbside program accepts these materials, place them in the appropriate bin. If not, take them to a local recycling drop-off location. PVC is particularly challenging to recycle and may need to be disposed of in the trash if no recycling options are available.
By following these steps, you can ensure that most parts of your old three-ring binder are recycled or repurposed, reducing waste and supporting sustainability.
A New Generation of Recyclable Binders
A new generation of binders made with recovered paper and plastic rings that are more easily recyclable is emerging. These products offer a more sustainable alternative to traditional binders:
- JAM Paper Recycled Kraft 3-Ring Binder: Made from 100% recycled paperboard, this binder is both environmentally responsible and fully recyclable.
- QuickFit View 3-Ring Binder: While only made from 50% recycled material, this binder is PVC-free, making it more convenient to recycle.
- Office Depot Brand Recycled Binders: These binders are constructed using 49% recycled content and designed for recyclability with polypropylene, not PVC covers.
- ReBinder Recycled Binders: Made from recycled paper, these binders are fully recyclable and designed for disassembly to reduce environmental impact.
By choosing these environmentally responsible options, you can further support sustainability efforts and reduce waste. If you no longer need a working binder, be sure to donate it — schools and nonprofits welcome office supply donations.