November 2007- Waste Not, Want Not: Recycling Scrap Can Be a Big Money Maker

Binding and finishing operations, by their very nature, produce a large volume of paper scrap. Dealing with scrap effectively is not only  environmentally responsible, but financially sensible. It’s important for graphic arts companies of all sorts to reap returns from their recycling efforts, especially during slower production months.

Whether you’re a printer with bindery equipment or a finisher, your drilling, binding, folding and other post press processes produce off-cuts and trimming residue during production runs. Scrap also is generated from make-ready spoilage and non-saleable overruns. The vast majority of this scrap is recyclable. The way scrap is handled after it is produced will greatly affect how much it is worth in the marketplace.

Some operations dispose of loose off-cuts by throwing them into bins or cargo containers, a move that reduces their value. Wise binding and finishing managers sort their scrap materials, separating paper into categories such as uncoated, coated and UV coated stock. Sorted stock is then loaded into a trailer for transport to a recycling facility. Most recyclers will provide a trailer, parking it on a dock, then retrieve it when it becomes full and replace it with another.

Baling scrap increases its value, but balers are expensive and extremely large. Equipment decisions must weigh the cost and space requirements of purchasing and installing a baler against the potential savings for their operation.

The market value of scrap fluctuates throughout the year, and the prevailing rates also depend on where your operation is located. How much your scrap is worth can vary greatly according to city, region and recycler. It helps to have someone you trust in the recycling business keep an eye on the price of scrap materials and provide you with up-to-date information on market rates, allowing you to get the best available price for your recyclable waste.

The Riverside Advantage
Located in Rochester, New York, The Riverside Group is a leading provider for a broad range of binding and finishing services including perfect and PUR adhesive binding, case binding, mechanical binding, die-cutting, folding, gluing and attaching, UV coating, foil stamping and embossing, laminating and much more. From large runs to handwork, our skill and expertise shows in our attention to detail and exceptional customer service. Contact us today to discuss your next project.