What PAP 20 identifies
PAP 20 is the European material-identification code for corrugated fibreboard. The code concerns the packaging material itself.
How to recognise corrugated fibreboard
A cut edge normally shows a wavy or fluted paper layer between flat liners. That structure distinguishes corrugated board from solid non-corrugated paperboard.
How to dispose of it
Keep it clean and dry, remove non-paper contents, flatten it when the local service asks, and follow the local paper/cardboard route. Grease, wax, plastic laminates or heavy contamination can change the correct route.
Common questions
Questions people ask
Is PAP 20 always recyclable?
No. The code identifies material. Local acceptance, contamination, coatings and collection capacity determine the actual route.
Is a pizza box PAP 20?
Many pizza boxes are corrugated board, but food-soiled portions may need a different route. Follow the local service.
Should tape and labels be removed?
Remove large non-paper attachments when practical. Small labels or tape may be tolerated by some mills, but local instructions take priority.
Reference sources
Checked 2026-08-16