Can Old Photos Be Recycled?

There have definitely been times, usually when I'm packing and getting ready to move, that I need to trow a bunch of paper in the recycle bin.  And I'm certain that on every one of those occasions, I have thrown old photographs in the recycle bin as well.  I mean, they're still paper, right?

Turns out, no, you can't recycle old photos.

Waste photographic paper is not generally recoverable. Most papers are coated with a very thin layer of polythene to control water absorption and speed drying, and should not be mixed with other paper to be recycled. They should not be placed in your recycling cart or recycling drop off bins.

[via Loveland Reporter-Herald.]

Well that's just great.  Now I feel bad.  I hope I didn't inadvertently pollute anyone's drinking water or anything like that!