Cardboard recycling in the Dominican Republic is on the rise, but it still has significant potential for growth within the country’s circular economy. Every year, thousands of tons of packaging waste are generated, of which only a small percentage is adequately managed for recycling. According to the Association of Industries of the Dominican Republic (AIRD), only 22% of this waste is reused or compacted.
The Current Situation of Cardboard Recycling
Globally, cardboard recycling is one of the most established processes, and in the Dominican Republic, this practice has started to expand thanks to companies like Cappla Recycling. These initiatives help reduce the strain on landfills and decrease deforestation by reprocessing materials like cardboard, paper, and aluminum instead of discarding them.
Economic and Social Impact of Cardboard Recycling
In general, solid waste recycling generates over $100 million annually in the Dominican economy. This growth is partly due to increased environmental awareness and the entry of new players who view recycling not only as a business opportunity but also as a way to contribute to the country’s sustainable development.
Environmental Benefits and Waste Reduction
Recycling one ton of cardboard prevents the emission of approximately one ton of carbon dioxide and saves 4,000 kilowatt-hours of energy, enough to power an average household for over six months. Additionally, each ton of recycled cardboard prevents the cutting down of up to 17 trees, which is crucial in a world facing growing environmental challenges.
Conclusion
Cardboard recycling in the Dominican Republic represents a unique opportunity for companies, communities, and citizens to unite around a common goal: creating a sustainable future. At Cappla Recycling, we work to facilitate this transition towards a circular economy by offering solutions for the recycling of cardboard, aluminum, and paper, as well as specialized services such as document shredding.
