If kept separate, these types of paper could be sold for higher prices and be put to more valuable uses than mixed scrap paper. The working definitions of scrap paper are usually determined either by the unique mix of paper coming from a specific type of generator or by the requirements of the paper mill that uses the paper. Scrap Paper in Oregon Oregon generates about 221,000 tons of scrap paper per year. That is the equivalent of 139 pounds per capita.
Scrap paper comes from both commercial and residential sources.
The majority of it is generated from a large number of small generators, including offices, businesses, and homes. Most scrap paper is collected from a number of sources and then processed through a material recovery facility where both more valuable paper grades are pulled out for recycling and contaminants are removed for disposal. A few very large generators may separate scrap paper from their waste and work directly with a waste paper broker who collects it. In some office buildings scrap paper is kept separate from trash and janitorial staff transfer it to a central pickup point. Both solid waste collectors and paper brokers provide collection service for this type of paper.