Why Recycle?
Why Recyle?
Recycling is just one important strategy in the big picture of solid waste management. Recycling is effective because it allows individuals to be part of the solution by recycling at home and at work. We
can use recycled and recyclable products, organize recycling programs, and encourage our neighbors to
recycle. Just as we contribute to our nation's increasing garbage problem, we can all contribute to its
solution by recycling. Listed below are some of the benefits of recycling:
Local Environmental Benefits
The more that we recycle at home and at work, the more we reduce our reliance on landfilling and
incineration. In other words, every ton of waste that we recycle reduces the threat of groundwater
contamination from landfill leachate, reduces the problems associated with incinerator ash disposal an
stack emissions, and reduces the need for additional disposal capacity in the state of Maine.
Recycling Saves Natural Resources
Natural resources are limited and often difficult to extract from the earth. When products are made from
recycled materials, manufacturers are using every tree, every gallon of oil, every pound of minerals to
its maximum potential. If we use something just once and throw it away, we are wasting our precious
natural resources.
Recycling Saves Energy and Reduces Waste and Pollution
Manufacturing a product from "virgin" materials crees a lot of waste and pollution. Some of that
waste goes into landfills or incinerators, some of it is released into the air, and still more goes into the
water supply. Manufacturing the same products from recyclables rather than "virgin" materials save
energy and generates much less pollution.
Economic Benefits
Recycling and composting can save our communities money through: avoided disposal cost, extended
landfill life, and the sale of recyclable commodities. A composting operation can also provide an
inexpensive soil amendment to residents, replacing the need for more expensive soil conditioners
Recycling Creates Jobs
The Institute for Local Self-Reliance in Washington, DC estimates that nine jobs are created for every
15,000 tons of solid waste recycled into a new product, and seven jobs for the same amount of yard
trimmings composted. By contrast, only two jobs are created for every 15,000 tons incinerated, and just
one job for every 15,000 tons sent to landfills.
Recycling Builds Environmental Ethic
Active citizen participation is a necessary part of a recycling program. A successful program
encourages citizens to clean up their environment, conserve natural resources, and extend disposal
capacity. Recycling is one way that citizens can become more aware of the impact that their actions
have on the local and global environment. Through recycling, we can all become more involved, caring
citizens.
17.04.2007. 07:09
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