Recycling in Action at PTPC

Recycling is more than an environmental effort at the Port Townsend Paper Company (PTPC); it is the foundation of the mill’s daily operations. By turning used cardboard into new products, PTPC demonstrates how large-scale recycling can benefit both the environment and the local economy.

At the heart of PTPC’s process is the recycling of old corrugated containers (OCC), such as used shipping boxes. The company processes a significant portion of the recycled cardboard collected in Washington State each year, making it one of the region’s largest and most important recycling operations. All this material comes from post-consumer sources, meaning everyday items like used boxes are given a second life instead of ending up in landfills. This impressive effort produces more than 500 tons of recycled pulp every day, providing a steady supply of raw material for paper manufacturing.

This recycling process is not only environmentally responsible but also economically important. According to a recent economic impact study, PTPC supports hundreds of jobs and generates hundreds of millions of dollars in economic activity throughout Jefferson County and Washington State. By combining sustainability with strong economic contributions, the mill plays a vital role in the community.

PTPC is a clear example of recycling in action, where waste is transformed into valuable resources, and environmental responsibility goes hand in hand with economic strength.

If you have corrugated cardboard to recycle, you can bring it directly to the mill, recycling bins are located at the entrance to the employee parking area.