Environmental practices have always been hotly debated topics in the global arena due to their multifaceted implications on our health, economy, and social sphere as a whole. It’s no surprise, then, that there are many unfounded claims circulating around environmental topics, and topping the list are the myths about recycling.
Does recycling really save energy? Will separating regular garbage from recyclable materials really help the environment? Is it worth our time and effort to recycle? These and other questions about the merits of recycling are worth examining. In this article, we’ll learn about some of the most common recycling myths because, in this day and age, having the right knowledge will help us become more conscious and responsible for our household practices.
4 Common Myths About Recycling
Myth #1: Recyclable materials can always be recycled.
The truth is: The entire recycling process is not as simple as identifying which items have been transformed into waste and then putting those materials in the recycling facility. In actuality, materials can only be recycled if there is a high demand for them to be turned into a new product. Some determining factors in making the entire recycling process possible include the facility and local infrastructure that will sort these materials, as well as whether there is a whole new consumer market that will buy these newly-produced materials.
Consider the materials glass and aluminum. While these are inherently good materials that can be recycled, there is no point in recycling them unless we can sort and collect them and find a group of buyers for them.
Myth #2: Anything that has a recycling symbol on it is recyclable.
The truth is: The symbol does not always indicate whether or not a recyclable item. The Resin Identification Code is one method for helping us understand what type of plastic an item is made of and how to properly dispose of that item. However, this is only one of many factors that determine an item’s recyclability. Other important factors include the processing facilities, the color and size of the materials, and their condition.
Because different recycling facilities adhere to different regional guidelines and regulations concerning the plastics they accept, make sure to double-check with your local recycling and waste management company.
Myth #3: Products made of recycled materials are of low quality.
The truth is: When recycling was first formally introduced and adopted, it was frequently criticized for being of lower quality than the original materials from which it was derived. Recycled paper, for example, was gray and rough, and recycled plastics are thinner and weaker. But this is no longer true because modern technology now allows for the production of high-quality products from recycled materials.
In other words, recycled materials are no longer just low-cost substitutes; they now meet the same quality and performance standards as their raw material counterparts. As a matter of fact, the Food and Drug Administration has approved the use of recycled glass, plastic, and metal containers.
Myth #4: Items must be thoroughly sorted for recycling.
The truth is: In general, you don’t need to meticulously sort your recyclables into different categories because the use of a single stream recycling system has made it possible to place all recyclable materials in one container. Items recycled in a single-stream process are then collected and transported to a material recovery facility (MCF) for sorting and processing.
Need Help with Managing Your Recyclable Materials?
There is a great need to correct these recycling myths because, given our extreme consumer economy, waste products will continue to accumulate if each of us does not do our part in recycling our own waste.
Whether you own a home, business, or other commercial property, Troupe Waste and Recycling is ready to help you in all aspects of recycling and waste management. Call us at 781-340-0030, so we can set up your recycling program today.
