What is the Loop ?

The products we buy are part of a process that includes making, using, and recovering them.

If we recycle those products and then buy recycled products, we create a "loop," requiring fewer resources and less energy to make new products.

If we send those products to a landfill or incinerator, most or all the energy and materials that went into making them are wasted.

For recycling to be worthwhile, one needs:

·        Affordable means to acquire them. (Employees/trucks/facilities)

·        A steady supply of recovered materials

·        Quality recovered materials that meet manufacturers' specifications (clean/separated properly eg. lids removed)

·        The technology to make new products from recycled materials

·        Customers to buy products that contain recycled materials

Just because there is a loop symbol on an object, does not mean it is recyclable! 

Separating glass jars, aluminum cans, papers, etc. and setting them by the curb or taking them to a recycling center is only part of the recycling process.

We all make decisions, every day, which can make a difference.

Think about what happens to every part of what you buy……