The Power of OCC Recycling

In today’s eco-conscious world, recycling has become an essential practice to preserve our environment. One material that often finds its way into recycling bins is Old Corrugated Cardboard (OCC), also known as cardboard packaging.

What is Old Corrugated Cardboard (OCC)?

Old Corrugated Cardboard refers to used cardboard packaging commonly found in shipping boxes, cereal boxes, and various other consumer goods. It consists of three layers: two flat liner boards sandwiching a rippled sheet known as the corrugating medium. OCC is favored for its strength, durability, and affordability, making it a popular packaging choice.

The Recycling Process:

The recycling process of OCC involves several key steps:

1. Collection: OCC is collected from homes, businesses, and recycling centers through curbside recycling programs or dedicated drop-off points.
2. Sorting: At recycling facilities, OCC is sorted to remove contaminants like plastic, metal, and other non-recyclable materials. Automated and manual processes ensure that only clean and usable cardboard is selected for recycling.
3. Shredding and Pulping: The sorted OCC is then shredded into small pieces and mixed with water to create a pulp. This pulp undergoes a cleaning process to remove ink, adhesives, and other impurities.
4. De-Inking (Optional): For cardboard destined to become white paper products, an additional de-inking process removes ink residue, resulting in a cleaner pulp.
5. Repulping and Forming: The cleaned pulp is mixed with fresh fibers to strengthen the material and enhance its quality. It is then formed into large rolls or sheets, ready for reuse in various manufacturing processes.
6. New Product Manufacturing: The recycled cardboard can be transformed into a range of products, including new cardboard boxes, paperboard, packaging materials, and even high-quality paper products.

Contact Ocean Ridge Recycling’s team to learn more about OCC cardboard.

Environmental Benefits:

Old Corrugated Cardboard (OCC) recycling is a simple yet impactful way to contribute to a sustainable future. By recycling OCC, we conserve resources, reduce waste, mitigate climate change, and promote economic growth.

Recycling OCC offers numerous environmental advantages:

1. Conservation of Resources: Recycling OCC reduces the need for raw materials like wood pulp, conserving trees, and protecting forests. By utilizing recycled cardboard, we can save energy, water, and other resources required for virgin paper production.
2. Waste Reduction: Cardboard waste is a significant contributor to overflowing landfills. By recycling it, we divert this material from landfills, extending its lifespan and reducing the associated environmental risks.
3. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction: The recycling process requires less energy compared to manufacturing cardboard from scratch. This translates into lower greenhouse gas emissions, helping mitigate climate change.
4. Water Conservation: Recycling OCC consumes considerably less water than producing cardboard from virgin materials. By conserving water resources, recycling contributes to sustainable water management.
5. Economic Benefits: OCC recycling creates job opportunities in the recycling industry and promotes a circular economy, where materials are reused rather than discarded. This fosters economic growth and supports local communities.

Looking to Buy? 

The next time you come across a cardboard box, remember its potential to be transformed into something new and embrace your role as an eco-warrior by recycling it responsibly.

Connect with Ocean Ridge Recycling’s dedicated team today and explore how we can assist you in purchasing Old Corrugated Cardboard (OCC) for your business needs. Together, let’s take a step toward a greener future!