Recycling is the process of converting waste materials into new materials and objects. This process often includes the recovery of energy from waste materials. The recyclability of a material depends on its ability to reacquire the properties it had in its original state. Recycling can help reduce the quantities of solid waste deposited in landfills, which have become increasingly expensive. Recycling also reduces the pollution of air, water, and land resulting from waste disposal.
Recyclables with the greatest impact are bottles, cans, paper, and cardboard. Standardized recycling labeling can also have a positive effect on the supply of recyclates when it specifies how and where the product can be recycled. "Recyclate" is a raw material sent to and processed in a waste recycling plant or materials-recovery facility so it can be used in the production of new materials.
Recycling became necessary for most homes during World War II, where financial constraints and significant material shortages made it necessary to reuse goods and recycle materials. Recycling can have environmental, economic, and community benefits. For the environment, recycling helps conserve the Earth’s natural resources like raw materials, minerals, trees, etc. It protects natural habitats for the future and reduces the consumption of fresh raw materials, energy usage, air pollution (from incineration), and water pollution (from landfilling) by decreasing the need for “conventional” waste disposal and lowering greenhouse gas emissions compared to plastic production.
Recycling can be difficult for consumers to understand what materials can be recycled, how materials can be recycled, and where to recycle different materials. However, recycling is an important process that can help reduce waste and protect the environment.
