what is recycling

Recycling is the process of converting waste materials into new materials and objects, often including the recovery of energy from waste materials. It is a key component of modern waste reduction and is the third component of the "Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle" waste hierarchy. The recyclability of a material depends on its ability to reacquire the properties it had in its virgin or original state. The U.S. recycling system involves three main steps: collection, processing, and remanufacturing into a new product. Common materials that are recycled include iron and steel scrap, aluminum cans, glass bottles, paper, wood, and plastics. Recycling can help reduce the quantities of solid waste deposited in landfills, which have become increasingly expensive, and also reduces the pollution of air, water, and land resulting from waste disposal. Recycling not only benefits the environment but also has a positive effect on the economy. However, societys choice of whether and how much to recycle depends on economic factors.