The rise of recycling activism has led to many skeptics to question the true value of recycling. This article will debunk common recycling misconceptions, and set the record straight – once and for all.
Personal opinion aside – what everyone can agree on is that the world has a waste management issue. The rise of consumerism has increased our footprint and led to an overflow of landfill waste. Turning a blind eye is not the solution. Delayed action will result in serious damage and long-term consequences to the planet.
You’re not alone in the confusion of what is real, and not real. Let’s break it down, and understand the facts.
Myths
Here are four debunked myths about recycling.
Recycled Materials can only be recycled once
This myth causes a lot of confusion. While the myth has truth to it in the case of some plastics, the fact is, most recyclable materials such as glass and metals can be recycled over and over again!
Recyclable materials can be broken down and reused without any loss in material quality. While not all plastic can be broken down, a lot of plastics can be remanufactured and used in products such as upholstery. Before you recycle materials, ensure they are clean and free of contamination.
The recyclable symbol means the material is recyclable
The recycle symbol means the material is recyclable, right? Unfortunately, this is not the case. On plastic products, the symbol will contain a number. The number refers to a resin identification, informing the consumer what type of plastic the product is made from. Do your research, and recycle all the plastics you can!
Consult your local recycling centre to learn more about recycling plastics in your town.
Recyclable materials go to landfill
Everyone has heard someone go “Why recycle? It all ends up in landfill anyway”. This is an untrue misconception. While some towns may not have recycling facilities, most populated towns and cities have the required resources to recycle effectively.
If your council has provided your home or office with a yellow recycle bin – you have the ability to recycle materials in your town.
Recyclable materials hold high monetary value. While some recyclables may end up not fit for purpose e.g. waste on materials, the majority of recyclable materials are sorted, processed and sold for reuse.
For further clarification about your town’s recycling process, contact your local council.
Contaminated recyclable materials CAN be recycled
This myth is easy to get tripped on. While some materials are inherently recyclable such as a cardboard box, they can become unrecyclable if contaminated.
Let’s consider the cardboard box. Cardboard boxes previously holding furniture or shoes can be recycled. But, a pizza box can’t be recycled due to contamination from food waste. If the material can be cleaned properly, such as a glass jar, the material can be reused. Other examples include aluminium cans, steel cans, clean plastic bottles and containers.
In conclusion, what we know and understand about the world and our footprint is always changing. While it can be confusing at times, there are local resources such as recycling facilities and local councils you can contact for further information. To protect our planet, we must take responsibility, do our own research, and do our best to contribute responsibly in the process.
If you’re seeking a recycle-friendly skip bin service, contact Bonza Bins, for the most affordable skip bin hire service in Fremantle.
