Paper Receipts Put in Garbage Do Not Recycle Most receipts are made from a combination of plastic and paper, and they also contain a harmful chemical called bisphenol-A (BPA). Since the materials cannot be separated and BPA cannot be removed from the paper, receipts are not recyclable. Do Not Burn Avoid using receipts to light fires. Burning receipts releases toxic chemicals onto the air that are harmful to inhale. Ways to Reduce Decline Receipts Decline paper receipts whenever possible. If available, choose email or text receipts instead.