we have a simple system - if a letter arrives and the information within it does not identify us, obviously the name and address is the usually identifier, we tear off the address and any customer / reference numbers etc, so effectively the letter can be read but it could be for anyone - our neighbours for instance, if it doesn't identify you or a family member then it goes in the paper recycling, the torn off bits go into a bag and once or twice a year we burn the bits, once burnt the ashes (and sometimes you could still read the address etc) are stirred up until powder and deposited on our back lane where it would nourish the bit of bee plants we have there along the edge, simply we recycle the majority of the paper and destroy only the relevant bits, next time you have a letter or mail shot, check what would be identified as you if you redacted the name, address or reference numbers (car reg plates and insurance identifiers included) and ask yourself, do I know who this could be, the recycled paper is then not wasted, or able to be reconstructed (unless a cross shredder), less electric used and the bits could be burnt in the summer after the bar b cue when finished with.