How Recycling Works

Boro-Wide Recycling Corp.

Maspeth, NY 718-416-1656

www.BoroWideRecycling.com

 

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By definition, recycling is a process that takes waste materials and reconfigures them into new products. As a result of this process, we are able to prevent the waste of usable materials, reduce the amount of energy used to create new products, and ultimately reduce air and water pollution by reducing the amount of materials that must enter landfills.

While many of us know the importance of recycling and why it is beneficial for our environment, take a moment to ask yourself if you know how recycling really works. What are the steps to recycling? How do recycling plants work to manufacture new products out of old ones? Thanks to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), we can tell you! The following is a brief explanation of the steps to recycling:

1. Collect: In order to be able to recycle, a plant first must receive the materials! There are a variety of ways that collection happens, with the most popular being curbside collection programs. Other forms of collection include drop-off centers and deposit programs.

2. Sort: After all materials are compiled, facilities work to sort them and group similar products together, such as plastics, cans and glass. Once they are sorted, they are then cleaned and processed into materials that are suitable for the manufacturing process.

3. Manufacture: The next step in recycling includes creating new products out of pre-existing materials. This means that items you use at work, at school, or around the house may be created from products that once served a different purpose. Common items that are created from recycled materials are newspapers, steel cans, and soft drink containers.

4. Purchase: The final step in recycling is completed with help from the consumer. By purchasing new products that are made from recycled materials, you complete one cycle and essentially begin another. The next time you go shopping, choose items that can easily be recycled or are made from recycled products!

At Boro Wide Recycling, we work to keep our planet safe by providing comprehensive recycling services to commercial and residential customers. Join us in our efforts! Contact us to learn how we can help you in your recycling efforts, and don't forget to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to stay up to date with the latest news in recycling efforts and eco-friendly tips.