We have all read about recycling as a sustainable or green practice. At one level it involves the industrial processing of used materials into raw materials which can be utilized in a manufacturing process. The purpose of courses to reduce the use of new raw materials, reduce pollution from either burning or burying waste, and perhaps reduce energy usage due to decreased extraction or processing costs resulting from the acquisition of raw material. Recycling has certainly proliferated throughout our society and is practiced at both the civic and industrial levels.

Commonly recycled materials include electronics, glass, paper, cardboard, metals, plastics, and textiles.  Materials to be recycled are usually brought to collection centers or picked up as part of a waste disposal service and then sent to centers where they are sorted and cleaned. Industrial recycling usually occurs at a plant or manufacturing location where recycled materials are usually sold to another business that can utilize the material in its production process.

Benefits of Recycling
·    In many instances, recycling saves energy
·    It reduces the need for burying or burning waste
·    Pollution caused by the manufacturing of products from virgin materials is reduced
·    Emissions of greenhouse gases are lowered from a manufacturing perspective
·    It conserves natural resources such as petroleum, water, timber, and minerals.
·    It helps sustain the environment for future generations.