Recycling is a way to reuse and repurpose materials that would otherwise be thrown away as waste. The process diverts materials from landfills, reduces pollution from the creation of new products and helps conserve Earth’s natural resources.

By recycling paper, metals and glass, there is less need to harvest or extract new raw materials from the Earth. This can mean fewer trees cut down, rivers diverted and wild animals displaced or killed. It can also reduce soil and water pollution caused by mining operations. It’s important to note that recycling doesn’t solve all of the planet’s problems. Ideally, the “three Rs” of Reduce, Reuse and Recycle are used in tandem to achieve the most impact for our environment and society.

When properly recycled, materials like tin cans and aluminum foil, used office paper and polystyrene foam are transformed into brand new products. This can help to lower energy consumption by avoiding the need for the production of new material from raw ingredients. For example, making new aluminum from raw bauxite ore requires the burning of fossil fuels. By reducing the need for new aluminum, we can save energy and protect our climate.

In addition to saving energy, recycling provides a source of income for communities. This money can then be put toward vital community projects like parks, bike paths and educational grants. It can even help to reduce the costs of landfill tipping fees, a major driver of local tax increases and economic instability.