The Wood Pallet Industry | 4 Common Misconceptions
Although wooden pallets are common in various workplaces, many misconceptions continue to exist about them. You might hear people complain about the increasing carbon footprint, copious amounts of wood pallets in landfills or limited usage options when speaking of wood pallets. We are dedicated to educating and informing anyone who might come across pallets in the workplace or in personal life.
Myth #1: Pallets Are Not Environmentally Friendly
Of course, trees are essential for the human well-being and everyone knows about their importance for our nature and wildlife. However, wood is a natural and renewable resource which makes it the best material for pallets. Wooden pallets are 100% recyclable and the industry is very close to achieve the zero-waste benchmark.
Additionally, after the pallet served its initial purpose, the owner can resell it to a pallet repair company.
Myth #2: Wood Pallets Fill Up Landfills
Wooden pallets arent allowed into Landfill
This is one the most crucial myths in the industry which needs clarification. A recently conducted study by Virginia Tech found that 95% of wood pallets are being recycled. In fact, the study claims that the overall appearance of wood pallets in landfills decreased.
Wooden pallets are used, repaired if necessary, reused, or converted into mulch, animal bedding or biofuel when they are no longer useful.
Myth #3: Wood Pallets Contribute To Deforestation
Yes, wood pallets are made from new lumber. However, pallet companies often use these same pallets over and over again by repairing their damaged components. When a pallet becomes unrepairable, it is shredded into mulch or other recycled materials.
Myth #4: New Pallets Are The Best Pallets
We want to clarify that recycled pallets can be as good as new pallets. The ISPM-15 standard ensures that the wood pallets are sterilized through heat treatment. Furthermore, you can save a substantial amount of money by using recycled or repaired pallets, instead of new ones, while also doing something good for the environment.
Recyclability and the impact on the environment are extremely important when considering packaging and shipping materials, nowadays. Wood pallets may not seem to be the best option at first, but businesses should take a closer glance at the benefits of choosing them for their operations.
If you have additional questions or need further information, contact one of our pallet experts.