By 
Recycling is a crucial process carried out by communities and businesses for the environment. It aims to reduce pollution, waste, and resources consumption significantly. Without past efforts and recycling movements, we would have been buried in the garbage by now. Additionally, each individual must partake in reusing, repurposing, upcycling, and other derivatives of recycling.
What is recycling?
Recycling is the process of materials conversion into new products. Forms of recycling vary from do-it-yourself repurposed objects to a collection of items in a materials facility. For example, metal recycling is usually conducted in processing spaces where manufacturers take them as raw materials. An advantage of recycling metals is that they undergo refurbishing but still maintaining their original form. For example, a recycled copper wire can still retain its conductivity and malleability properties despite the recycling process.
Types of recycling
- Glass recycling.
Glass bottles and jars can be helpful in creative ways as long as they are thoroughly cleaned and dried. However, it is not advisable to utilize kitchen glassware and window glass because these materials contain contaminants that may interfere with your project.
- Paper and cartons.
Paper tubes, magazines, newsprint, printer papers, and cardboard boxes may be subjected to repurposing as long as they are clean and dry. They can be used as wrappers or a protective covering.
- Plastics #1 and #2.
Containers marked #1 and #2 inside the triangle recycling logo can be used as long as they are empty and rinsed. Generally, plastic bottles, tubs, and jugs can hold non-corrosive liquid, etc.
- Metal recycling.
Recycling centers process aluminum, steel, brass, copper, silver, or gold in exchange for cash to be repurposed into valuable raw materials.
The rationale behind recycling
The process of recycling is vital for the environment. It is the heart of sustainable living which is waste reduction. Benefits are countless but below are the most significant ones
- Pollution control.
The recycling process gives an item a new purpose, and it keeps it away from landfills or incinerators. Therefore, it does not add to pollutants.
- Limits the need for new materials.
Recycling reduces the need to manufacture raw materials like timber and minerals. Manufacturing consumes energy, resources and leads to pollution.
- Conserves resources.
Recycling discourages single-use objects. Reusing conserves energy, time, and money.
Valuable tips to start recycling
Equipped with the knowledge and awareness of the importance and benefits of recycling, the best time to start is today.
- Align with your local recycling plant and be wary of their rules and regulations. Come up with a quick reference guide on what the materials facility is processing and special instructions. Make sure it is visible to you and the entire household.
- Small steps lead to leaps and bounds by imbibing recycling into your lifestyle. Actively veer away from waste by avoiding single-use materials. Bring an eco-bag during your grocery trips.
- Utilize reusable jars as leftover containers instead of plastic ones. Always bring a reusable water bottle and straw when going out.
- Set up a recycling bin next to your trash can. In this way, you can assess each trash you dispose of.
- Cultivate a garden for your fruits, vegetables, and spices. Create a compost pit to recycle food waste as fertilizer.
- Upcycle furniture, clothing, accessories, and other household materials
Ultimately, reducing carbon footprint and waste starts from within and seeps out by influence in communities. Be your own best advocate.
