Top Five Recycling Stats

Top Five Recycling Stats. Graphic: © herbshealthhappiness.com. Small images – Pixabay (PD).

It’s about time we take recycling more seriously – i.e. if we plan to ensure the sustainability of our planet. Observing proper recycling practices allows us to conserve natural resources, protect ecosystems, reduce the exploitation of new raw materials, save energy, and reduce the carbon footprint. Still not convinced? Consider these recycling stats:

1. Did you know that recycling aluminum uses less than 5% of the energy it would take to create the product from scratch? The energy saved from recycling a single aluminum can of your favorite beverage can theoretically power a TV for 3 hours or a bulb for 20 hours ^[1]

2. If every household recycled 1 out of every 10 newspapers, we would prevent 25 million trees from being chopped down every year. This seemingly negligible action could statistically help curb the rampant deforestation around the world (source).

3. The paper and pulp industry is the 5th largest consumer of energy. Making recycled paper would lead to a 64% reduction in energy use compared to cutting down trees for wood pulp. ^[2]

4. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, “the energy saved from recycling one glass bottle will operate a 100-watt light bulb for four hours.” ^[1] Fun fact: A glass bottle can remain intact in a landfill for up to 1 million years.

5. As surprising as it may sound, cars are one of the most recycled products in the world. Up to 95% of retired cars head to recycling operations, whereby 75% of the parts are recyclable. ^[3]

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Graphic ©herbshealthhappiness.com. Images source – Pixabay (PD).