Recyclers risking ID theft

People in the UK are being forced by councils to choose between protecting either the environment or their identity.

Recent research from credit analyst Experian shows that identity fraud is one of the fastest-growing crimes in the world; to prevent this people are told to shred personal documents. However, at the same time people in the UK are also being urged to recycle paper.

According to research carried out by Onepol for Fellowes, a company that manufactures paper shredders, 26 per cent of the nearly 500 councils in England and Wales (approx 170) refuse to handle shredded paper at all as recyclable waste; many more will only accept very small amounts or do not have kerbside collections.

This problem appears to be prevalent only in England and Wales because, according to Waste Aware Scotland, councils north of the border will pick up this waste.

The reasons given by local authorities are varied. Some say shredded paper falls through the bars of collection vehicles or snarls up sorting vehicles. In addition the contracts local authorities may have with recycling facilities or paper mills could preclude shredded paper because of similar issues. In some cases there is no market for this material.

"I don't think packaging or newspaper manufacturers are that keen on shredded paper. Low strength can cause breaks on the [printing] machine increasing downtime and reducing efficiencies," said Peter Seggie of the Confederation of Paper Industries.

Fellowes is now calling on all councils to start putting their constituents first.

Tyron Hill, Fellowes' marketing director, said: "Councils across the UK have recognised the importance of offering recycling services to residents. This is both necessary and commendable.

"However, it is a concern that shredded waste is not being recycled in some areas. It means that many households are not following police and Government advice to shred personal information before throwing it away, and are putting themselves at serious risk of identity fraud.

"People must shred their personal and financial details – and local councils should be proactively encouraging this.”

He suggested that in the meantime, if people live in an area that won't pick up shredded paper they can find other ways to stay safe and be green. Hill suggested composting this waste. Some local authorities offer reduced price bins in association with Recycle Now.

If this is not feasible, Wrap (the Waste & Resources Action Programme) offers advice from its website including setting up a wormery or contacting schools which can use paper for projects.

Also, when possible, do not print sensitive information that you store on your PC. If all else fails, the general advice is continue to shred personal documents and dispose of the paper with normal waste.