Abstract: Described are methods for processing mixed solid waste. The method includes providing a mixed solid waste stream including dry organic material comingled with wet organic and/or inorganic material. The mixed waste is shredded and then separated using size separation and density separation. The shredder has a cut size and rotation speed that produces less than 20% by mass of particles smaller than 2 inches from the mixed solid waste. The shredded mix solid waste is then separated by density and a portion of the stream is recovered as a recyclable or converted to a high value product.