Newspapers demand up to as much as 13% of space in U.S. landfills, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Curbside recycling programs and drop-off recycling facilities (also simply shredding and adding to your compost piles) are certainly helpful when trying to dispose of your outdated newspapers, but other interesting ways to recycle your support of local journalism also exist.

7 EASY WAYS TO REUSE OLD NEWSPAPERS

1. Packaging: Newspaper can serve as a great material for padding, wrapping and filling extra space as you pack for your next move. Use the same as soft packing papers, in addition to bubble wrap. Cost-effective and overlooked alternative.
2. Ripen fruits & vegetables: Wrap your produce in newspaper and store in a dry location to ripen and preserve freshness.
3. Weed barriers: Layer newspaper around the plants in your garden (1-2 inches from the stems), then water to hold it down and cover with straw or mulch for a natural solution to those pesky weeds.
4. Eliminate odors: Place newspaper inside your shoes, luggage, containers, etc. — even in your refrigerator to naturally absorb liquids and negate any unwanted odors... instead of hearing others complain.
5. Papier-mâché: Prepare your paste, tear up the newspapers, dip and apply strips to a form of your choice. Repeat until the project comes to life, letting each layer dry completely, then the best part: decorate!
6. Origami paper: Cut your newspaper into squares and fold into an endless possibility of creations, top beginner suggestions being the traditional cranes, boats, fans and envelope wallets, among other easy-to-learn crafts.
7. Donate to local animal shelters, volunteer: Shelters almost always need newspaper, used to line cages and shredded for bedding or litter. The soft paper avoids hurting animal paws and helps make cleaning much easier on staff.

If you still have an overwhelming amount of newspaper after trying some of these creative ideas, notable recycling drop-off locations across Baldwin County include Bay Minette Public Works, Camp Beckwith, Five Rivers Delta Center, MacBride Landfill, Orange Beach Community Center and Weeks Bay State Park to name a few. Visit www.baldwincountyal.gov for more information on drop-off options near you.