How It Works

There are three parts to the recycling process; each essential to making the system work: collection, manufacturing and buying. These three components are so important that they are represented by the three “chasing arrows” of the recycling logo.

Collection: Don't Send Recyclables to the Landfill
In this phase, materials are separated from the waste stream and prepared to become raw materials. Different cities and municipalities have different systems for sorting and collecting materials that can be recycled. Most communities now have recycling bins for curbside collection, or recycling stations where materials can be taken.

Manufacturing: Using Recycled Materials Instead of Virgin Raw Materials
Recovering the materials is just the first step. There must also be a market for it—companies that want the materials and are able to remanufacture them into consumer products. Sometimes these companies have to invest a significant amount of money to adapt their manufacturing processes to accommodate the use of recycled materials in their products.

Buying: Close the Loop by Buying Products with Recycled Content
In order to make recycling economically viable, there must be a market for recycled products. If people buy them, companies will be encouraged to make them, and the whole system works.