Paper recovered for recycling is categorized into “grades.” Each grade of paper has specific characteristics, as well as its own value to manufacturers. Dozens of grades exist, however, they are generally grouped into categories including corrugated (“cardboard”), newsprint, mixed (different colors and types, like inserts and circulars) and office paper.
The type of paper collected determines the new product that can be made from it. Generally, the lower grades, such as corrugated and newsprint, go back into the same new products. Higher grades, such as the high quality fiber found in offices and schools, can go back into printing and writing papers, among other uses.
For detailed information on the amount of various grades produced and recovered for recycling each year, along with charts depicting the new products they go into, please visit www.paperrecycles.org.