Padded Envelopes (Paper) Trash All padded envelopes should be placed in the trash. Most are made of mixed material composed of paper and plastic. Some (like Amazon envelopes) include a cellulose glue that inhibits the recycling process of paper. Others use additional paper for the envelope padding; it is difficult to decipher the material content and if it is recyclable. Padded envelopes made of all plastic can be taken to a plastic film drop off location. For a more sustainable choice, buy envelopes made of 100% recycled content paper or ones made of plant-based material instead of plastic. Ways to Reuse Use Padded Envelopes More Than Once Save the padded envelopes you receive and use them again when you have something to mail. Just place labels over the original addresses and make sure to use enough tape to keep the envelope closed. Use Old Envelopes as Bubble Wrap Keep used mailers and save them for when you next need to wrap or ship something fragile.