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Recycling

Recycling turns used materials like paper, glass and metal into new things. It saves energy and reduces waste.

๐Ÿ’ก Fun fact

Recycling one aluminium can saves enough energy to run a TV for hours.

All about Recycling

Recycling turns used materials, such as paper, glass, cans and some plastics, into new products. Instead of being thrown away, these materials are collected, cleaned, sorted and processed into raw materials for making new things.

Recycling saves energy and natural resources. Making aluminium from recycled cans uses far less energy than making it from raw ore. Recycling also reduces the amount of rubbish sent to landfill, where it can take many years to break down.

๐ŸŽฎ Try it yourself!

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Real-life uses of Recycling

  • Turning old newspapers into cardboard boxes
  • Melting down glass bottles to make new glass
  • Making new cans from used aluminium

Frequently asked questions about Recycling

What can I recycle at home?

Check your local council guidance, but most areas accept paper, cardboard, glass bottles, metal cans and many plastic containers.

Is recycling always better than throwing things away?

Usually yes, but reducing and reusing is even better because it prevents waste from being produced in the first place.

Why should I rinse containers before recycling?

Food residue can contaminate other recycling and stop it from being processed properly.