Myths about Recycling and the truth behind them
It’s easy to discourage people from recycling due to misinformation. But, if you’re recycling at home, you should continue doing it. Here are some myths about the process and the truth behind it.
You should classify the recyclables
While it’s good to start classifying the recyclables based on materials, it’s not necessary. There are places where sorting happens. Even if you follow single-stream recycling, it’s understandable. You don’t have to be guilty that you have everything in the same place. Besides, you can always ask for help from companies like langleyrecyclingkc.com to assist you in your recycling efforts.
Recycling is a waste of time and resources
Some people might argue that recycling doesn’t help at all. Your recycled materials will eventually go to the same place as other types of trash. The truth is many companies use the collected recycled materials. Some people also repurpose the recyclables into accessories, furniture, works of art, and many others. It helps to keep these things for a while before throwing them into the bins.
Crumpled cans must be on a separate container
Again, sorting can be discouraging for many people. They dislike recycling because they don’t have the time to sort things out. But, if you’re too lazy to separate crumpled from intact cans, there are machines dedicated to doing the job.
Materials are only good for recycling once
While this myth partially holds true, it’s not always the case. Several materials like metals are up for recycling several times. Their quality remains the same despite constant use. You can speak with experts on metal recycling to understand how things work. Unfortunately, plastic is an example of an item you can only recycle once. As it gets recycled continuously, its quality degrades. The good thing is they become plastic pellets. These materials are useful in creating clothing and upholstery. Don’t feel discouraged to recycle even if some people tell you it’s a waste of time.
Recycled materials are of poor quality
It’s easy to fall for statements like recycled materials are of poor quality. While it was true before, you can’t say the same now. With the advent of modern technology, companies can use recycled materials without sacrificing quality. You won’t have to worry that you’re spending money on things that wouldn’t last long. Since manufacturers spend less to produce items made from recycled materials, expect these choices to be more affordable.
Recycling uses more energy
Some people might say that recycling materials require more energy than creating something new. For instance, recycling aluminum saves up to 95% of the energy needed to create a new one. For paper, it’s about 60% and a third for glass and plastic. Overall, it’s more efficient to recycle materials. Again, it’s an established fact that recycled materials aren’t necessarily of poor quality. If it’s efficient to reuse them, there’s no downside at all. You should keep moving in this direction.
Items of different materials can’t be recycled
It’s also a myth that things made from different materials can’t be recycled. The rules change from time to time, but its’ easier these days. For instance, you don’t have to remove staples from documents. There’s heating equipment available to melt them away. It works well with other bits of metals too.
All cardboards and papers are recyclable
You might think that all cardboards and papers are up for recycling. While it’s a noble thing to consider recycling them, you shouldn’t always do it. Some may contain grease and are too dangerous and toxic to be recycled.
Paper towels should always go into the compost
It’s another myth to throw paper towels into the compost all the time. Again, composting is a good idea, but you should be selective. Some may contain bodily fluids and they should go straight to the bin. Composting them isn’t a terrific idea. The same goes to all items used in hospitals.
Only food can go to the compost
It’s also another mistake to think that only food should go to the compost. The truth is it’s only the start. You might want to check the other items that you can put into the compost. You don’t want to waste the chance by placing the trash in a wrong location.
Biodegradable items can decompose
Sure, it’s the technical definition of biodegradable items. They decompose and can go into the compost. Bacteria can help speed the process up. However, not all of them decompose at the same rate. Some might take longer. Hence, it’s smart to think about what to place into the compost first before placing things in the same category.
Leave out anything you’re unsure about
When you’re unsure about what to recycle, leave the item out. You don’t want to be incorrect and affect the entire effort. However, consult with people who know more until you can get it right.
Your efforts don’t matter
Sure, you can’t see the impact of your recycling efforts if you only see them through a single lens. However, it’s a different story once you look at the bigger picture. You will realize how critical recycling is. When everyone does the right thing, it’s easy to create positive changes in society. So don’t give up and inspire others to do the same.
Now that you know the truth, it’s time to practice recycling. If you’re already doing it, tell others to follow your lead. You can inspire more people to follow recycling. Entertaining questions regarding recycling at home.
Remember that we only have a few years left to change where things are heading. Otherwise, we can’t save the environment. We won’t see the world as it is. It might be too much effort to recycle, but think about the positive impact in society. Your children deserve to enjoy what you do. Don’t deprive them of it. Even if you have to spend more time to recycle or research more about it, it would be worth it.
