When you hand over your confidential documents for shredding, you’re making a smart move to protect your personal or business information. But have you ever wondered what happens once those papers have been shredded, Where does all the material go, and how do you know it’s really gone for good? In this weeks post, we’ll guide you through the entire process, from secure collection to responsible recycling, so you can feel confident in your decision to use our professional shredding services.
Secure Collection
The journey starts with secure collection. Whether you’ve arranged an on-site shredding visit or scheduled a collection from your workplace, your documents are first placed into locked consoles or security bins. These are designed to prevent unauthorised access and are handled by trained professionals using GPS-tracked vehicles. Trustworthy shredding providers follow a strict chain of custody, which means your paperwork is monitored and protected from the moment it leaves your hands until it’s fully destroyed.
High-Security Shredding
Once your documents arrive at the shredding facility, or if using a mobile unit directly on-site, they are immediately shredded using industrial-grade machines. These machines cut paper into tiny pieces, using cross-cut or micro-cut methods for maximum security.
Unlike home or office shredders, professional machines reduce documents to confetti-sized bits, making it virtually impossible to piece anything back together. This level of destruction is essential for meeting GDPR and data protection standards.
Mixing the Materials
To ensure complete security, the shredded paper is mixed with material from other customers. This eliminates any chance of reconstruction or identification. The shreds are then compressed into large bales to make them easier to handle and prepare them for the next stage of recycling. This is especially important for businesses handling sensitive data, as it adds an extra layer of anonymity and reassurance.
Environmentally Friendly Recycling
The shredded and baled paper is transported to a recycling facility, where it’s pulped, cleaned and repurposed into new paper products. These include tissue paper, paper towels and recycled office paper.
This process helps reduce landfill waste, saves energy and supports sustainability efforts. In fact, recycling just one tonne of paper can save 17 trees, 26,000 litres of water and thousands of kilowatt-hours of electricity.
Certificate of Destruction
After the shredding is complete, you’ll receive a Certificate of Destruction. This is to stay in line with legal and regulatory requirements and give you tangible proof that your documents have been securely and responsibly destroyed. This is especially important for businesses needing to demonstrate GDPR or industry compliance.
Complete Peace of Mind
Using our professional shredding services doesn’t just protect your data, it supports compliance and contributes to a cleaner environment. From secure collection to final recycling, every stage is handled with care and professionalism. If you’re ready to dispose of your confidential documents securely, get in touch with us at mail@weshredpaper.com or call us at 0800 071 4000. Let us take the stress out of shredding.
