Paper Napkins

Trash Container Organics (Food and Yard) Container

If the napkin is food-soiled, it goes in the organics (green) cart.  

Napkins used for cleaning or non-food uses, should go in the trash.  

Do Not Recycle

Unused paper napkins cannot be recycled because the fibers are too short to be made into new paper. Used paper napkins also cannot be recycled because they are usually soiled with food or grease, which contaminates the recycling process.

Ways to Reduce

Use Cloth Instead of Paper Napkins

Rather than use paper napkins at home, buy a set of cloth napkins to use instead. Both linen and cotton cloths are more eco-friendly than single-use paper napkins.

Choose Unbleached Paper Products

Most paper products that are white or decorative have been chemically bleached and dyed. Opt for undyed, unbleached paper products to reduce the chemical exposure for you and the environment.

Reusable Packaging For Businesses

Check out Upstream’s catalog of reusable packaging and unpackaging innovators that provide ways for consumers to obtain products, mostly food and beverages, in returnable, reusable, or refillable packaging – or they deliver products to consumers unpackaged altogether.