J Godwin-Sens

Ms. Doncaster

ENG4U

February 9, 2024

The Importance of Recycling

Environmental concerns are of the upmost importance in global discussion, and recycling

is consistently a part of this discussion – a pivotal practice in the quest for sustainability.

Recycling, although thought to be a mundane chore, is a powerful tool that addresses pressing

issues such as the depletion of our resources, pollution, and energy consumption. It is also

important in its potential to reshape human’s relationship with the environment.

One significance of recycling is its role in conserving valuable resources. Metals, plastics, and

other resources from the earth are extracted through mining, logging and drilling. Recycling

provides a means to reintroduce these materials into the production cycle, mitigating the need for

extraction, and consuming less energy. For example, an article by ScienceDirect.com states that

for one tonne of aluminum produced, an estimated 17000 kWh of electricity are used (Claisse).

According to another article, published by the Unites States Environmental Protection Agency,

“Aluminum can be recycled using less than 5 percent of the energy used to make the original

product. […] Recycling one aluminum beverage can save enough energy to run a 14 watt CFL

bulb” (Archive). Recycling reduces the strain on ecosystems, preserves biodiversity and protects

natural habitats from degradation.

Additionally, recycling plays a pivotal role in waste management. The alarming rate at

which landfills are expanding underscores the necessity of sustainable waste disposal practices.
A useful article to expand one’s knowledge of this crisis is “What a Waste 2.0” from The World

Bank Website. This article expands on the fact that worldwide, 2.01 billion tonnes of municipal

solid waste is generated annually, and this is expected to double by 2050. Income influences

waste production, posing environmental risks, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia,

and the Middle East (Bank). Recycling diverts materials from landfills. In essence, recycling is a

crucial component of a circular economy, where materials are reused and repurposed rather than

being discarded after a single use.

Furthermore, recycling fosters a mindset shift towards responsible consumption. When

individuals actively participate in recycling, they become more conscious of their choices as

consumers. As people realize the impact of their choices on the environment, they are more

likely to opt for products with minimal packaging or those made from recycled materials. This

shift in consumer behavior can drive market demand towards sustainable and eco-friendly

alternatives, prompting businesses to adopt greener practices.

The importance of recycling cannot be overstated in our pursuit of a sustainable future. It

serves as a linchpin in resource conservation, waste management, energy reduction, and the

promotion of responsible consumption. By embracing recycling as a collective responsibility,

individuals, communities, and industries can contribute to the preservation of the environment

and the well-being of future generations. As we navigate the challenges of the modern world,

recycling stands as a tangible and impactful way to shape a healthier, more sustainable planet.
 Bibliography

Claisse, Peter A. Aluminum Production. 2016. 9 February 2024.

<https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/aluminum-
production#:~:text=Aluminium%20production%20is%20energy%20intensive,is%20very
%20suitable%20for%20recycling.>.
Staff, EPA's Web Archive. Environmental Factoids. 30 March 2016. 9 February 2024.
<https://archive.epa.gov/epawaste/conserve/smm/wastewise/web/html/factoid.html#conte
nt>.
Writers, The World Bank. What a Waste 2.0. 2018 September 2018. 9 February 2024.
<https://datatopics.worldbank.org/what-a-
waste/trends_in_solid_waste_management.html>.