Recycling FAQ’S

In the United States, we produce over 12% of the trash in the world, over 268 million tons, though that seems like a low percentage we have to remember that we only house 4% of the world’s population. In recent years in Michigan however, we have decreased our amount of waste while increasing our average recycling rate from 14% up to 19% since 2019. With that being said many people are still unsure of what is appropriate to recycle and when. These are some commonly asked questions about recycling.

1. Why is recycling so important?

a. By recycling we can cut down on emissions, waste, and energy. The fewer raw materials that are needed to be harvested to create products reduces our carbon footprint as well as the emissions used when creating brand new products from raw materials. Recycling cuts down on the amount of waste that ends up in our landfills yearly. By recycling materials, energy use towards creating products is cut down incredibly, reducing energy usage in the United States.

2. What can I recycle?

a. In Michigan we can recycle things like; Glass, paper, plastics, cardboard, metals, batteries, Styrofoam, household hazardous waste, food residue, rope, pharmaceuticals, electronics, and lightbulbs. The most important part of knowing what to recycle is knowing the rules of recycling that item as well. If you are ever unsure if you can recycle something you can always visit the recycling raccoons to learn more.

3. What do the numbers and symbols mean on plastic?

a. On the bottom of the plastic products or their packaging there will be a number 1-7 this indicates the type of plastic used to make the product, you may also find different abbreviations about the type of plastic that was used to make the product this is important in knowing what the material is and where you can recycle it. Standard household products are typically made of either type 1 or 2 plastic but it is important to always check before putting something out to recycle.

i. This does not include biodegradable products that are meant to be composted. Contact who you recycle with or your waste disposal company if you do not have your own composting bin/pile.

4. What are the Economic impacts of recycling?

a. By recycling we can preserve natural resources decreasing the amount of money needed to get the raw materials needed to make more of the already recycled product. Recycling also creates job growth within the United States. As recycling gains traction, the more people that are needed in the facilities therefore the more jobs that are brought in. This equates to 1.17 jobs for every 1,000 tons of materials recycled (EPA 2022).