paper
Confidence: high · Place: Germany · Last checked: September 2026
Why
- Books are mostly made of paper and cardboard.
- Paper waste belongs in the paper bin.
- Hardcover books may contain metal staples or plastic covers, which you should remove beforehand.
Some local authorities have their own book collection points where you can drop off books.
varies by Gemeinde (local authority)Before you throw it away
- Remove non-paper parts like plastic covers, metal staples, or hardcover bindings.
What you can make from it
Make bookends
- Cut the book spines into suitable pieces.
- Bend the pieces into an L-shape.
- Join the parts with glue or screws to make a stable bookend.
Make wrapping paper from book pages
- Remove the book covers and cut the pages to the desired size.
- Smooth the pages with an iron (low temperature).
- Use the paper to wrap gifts.