Recycling Basics
What is the primary benefit of recycling paper?
It reduces the need for cutting down trees and conserves energy, but also reduces water pollution.
What happens to recycled paper during the recycling process?
It undergoes pulping, de-inking, and can be turned into a variety of paper products, but the process is resource-intensive.
Recyclable or Not?
Which of the following items is not recyclable: a) Glass bottles, b) Plastic bags, c) Aluminum cans?
What is an example of Vinyl or PVC plastic?
Cooking oil bottles, Vinyl records, PVC pipes, Clear food packaging, mouthwash bottles
What is "precycling" in the context of waste management?
Precycling involves avoiding unnecessary waste by choosing products with minimal packaging or that are easily recyclable.
Name three common materials that are typically accepted in recycling programs.
Examples include aluminum, PETE plastics, and corrugated cardboard.
How are aluminum cans typically recycled?
They are melted down, refined, and used to manufacture new aluminum products, saving energy compared to mining bauxite.
True or False: Used pizza boxes are recyclable.
False; greasy pizza boxes are often contaminated and should not be recycled.
What is an example of HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)?
Ex: Shampoo bottle, Milk Jug, Yogurt Tub
What is the concept of "extended producer responsibility" (EPR) in waste management?
EPR holds manufacturers responsible for the entire lifecycle of their products, including disposal and recycling.
What does the term "single-stream recycling" mean?
It's a collection system where all recyclables are mixed, but it can lead to contamination issues during processing.
What is the significance of the term "upcycling" in recycling?
Upcycling involves creatively transforming waste materials into products of higher quality or value.
No
Which of the following types of plastics are the most common: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
1
How do "smart bins" contribute to more efficient waste management?
Smart bins use technology to optimize waste collection by alerting authorities when they are full, reducing unnecessary pickups.
What is the purpose of the recycling symbol with a number inside (e.g., PET #1)?
It identifies the resin type, but not all items with a recycling symbol are recyclable in every program.
Explain the role of composting in the recycling process.
Composting diverts organic waste from landfills, creating nutrient-rich soil, but it is not a traditional recycling process.
Which of the following items is not recyclable: a) Plastic Solo Cups, b) Glass Soda Bottles, c) Wax Paper Cups d) Ink Cartridges
Wax Paper Cups
Name 3 plastic items that cannot be recycled.
Disposable Coffee Cups with Plastic Lining, Plastic Straws, Plastic Cutlery, Plastic Packaging Films, Bubble Wrap, Plastic Toothpaste Tubes, Plastic Plant Pots, CD Cases, Disposable Diapers, Plastic Hangers, Plastic Toys, Disposable Razors, Plastic Packaging for Electronics, Plastic Lids and Caps, Plastic Takeout Containers
What is the purpose of a "material recovery facility" (MRF) in waste management?
MRFs are facilities that separate and process recyclable materials from mixed waste streams.
What is the importance of the three Rs in sustainable living?
The three Rs—Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle—aim to minimize waste, promote a circular economy, and conserve resources.
Why is it important to properly clean and rinse recyclables before putting them in the recycling bin?
Contaminated materials can lower the quality of recyclables and make them harder to process.
Which of the following items is not typically accepted in single-stream recycling: a) Aluminum foil, b) Plastic bottles, c) Newspapers?
Aluminum foil
Which types of plastics are not accepted at most local recycling centers?
6 and 7 (but also 3 and 5 sometimes)
Explain the role of anaerobic digestion in waste management.
Anaerobic digestion is a process where organic waste is broken down by microorganisms in the absence of oxygen, producing biogas and nutrient-rich byproducts.