Recycling has become a way for individuals and groups to do their part to care for the environment. While it can be a little bit of a pain to remember all the rules and not toss seemingly reusable materials into the wrong bin, the effort is well worth it. Recycling has given people a sense of accomplishment, and it can also help to make the world a better place.
One of the best parts about recycling is that it saves a lot of energy and resources, including water and electricity. When used to replace new steel or plastic, recycled material requires less processing and uses less raw energy. In addition, using scrap aluminum instead of new does the same thing; it reduces the amount of raw energy required for production and cuts down on the use of water.
Another great thing about recycling is that it helps to preserve natural resources. New materials require the harvesting or drilling of natural resources like trees, coal and minerals. Those materials then have to be transported and processed in order to create products. This can result in forests being cut down, rivers diverted, and wild animals losing their natural habitats. When you recycle, you reduce the need for these new raw materials to be obtained and harvested, thus preserving forests and other natural habitats as well as saving our planet from harmful disruption and damage.
Lastly, recycling gives old products a second life and prevents them from taking up space in landfills for years to come. When trash is left in a landfill, it decomposes anaerobically and releases methane, which is a greenhouse gas with 34 times the warming power of carbon dioxide. By recycling, you can ensure that these harmful gases don’t enter our atmosphere and cause climate change.
Finally, by recycling, you can help to provide jobs for your local community. The processing of recyclables is a huge industry, and it provides employment opportunities for drivers, sorters, mechanics, and managers. In fact, it is estimated that recycling accounts for up to half of some cities’ revenue. So next time you’re at your local recycle center, don’t forget to say “thank you” to these hardworking men and women who are putting their time into making the world a greener place. And be sure to practice proper recycling habits at home and in the workplace!
