Recycling

Recycling is a series of activities that includes collecting used, reused, or unused items that would otherwise be considered waste; sorting and processing the recyclable products into raw materials; and remanufacturing the recycled raw materials into new products. Consumers provide the last link in recycling by purchasing products made from recycled content.

Benefits of recycling include:

  • Reducing greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change;
  • Preventing releases of air and water pollutants;
  • Saving energy;
  • Supplying valuable raw materials to industry;
  • Creating jobs;
  • Stimulating the development of greener technologies;
  • Conserving resources for our children's future; and
  • Reducing the need for new landfills and combustors.