We’ve all been told for decades to “Recycle Plastic by Number”, but do we know the history behind this campaign? We’ve been led to believe that these numbers provide a clear answer to what is or isn’t recyclable, but this is not always the case. So, what do the numbers mean? What is the best […]

Another problem facing recycling is the belief that individual contributions to recycling do not make a significant impact. We disagree. When aggregated, individual efforts can lead to substantial environmental benefits. For instance, recycling a single aluminum can save enough energy to power a television for three hours. Aluminum is also infinitely recyclable! Cardboard products can

In this article of our series, the Recycling and Waste Reduction District of Porter County, with support from its Board of Directors and Citizens Advisory Committee, studies the consequences of contamination in recycling. Understanding contamination can enhance our recycling efforts.  Contamination in recycling is a growing concern that compromises the efficacy of waste management systems.

In this article of our series, the Recycling and Waste Reduction District of Porter County, with support from its Board of Directors and Citizens Advisory Committee, examines the recycling sorting process. Exploring the broader process of recycling can help us better understand the parameters of recycling right.  One common myth is that all recyclables end

For many, recycling in the Region has proven to be a cryptic process plagued by tales of recyclables in landfills and misconceptions about the final resting place for pizza boxes. A “why try?” attitude has left many to practically abandon the practice altogether, some going as far as assuming that their recycling tote is just