When it comes to sustainability, recycling is one of the most common topics, precisely because it is directly related to society's consumption and waste disposal.
Even though it is widely known, inaccurate information ends up reinforcing the perception that recycling is a complex, inefficient or even unnecessary process, compromising important practices for reducing environmental impacts.
Below are some myths and truths about recycling that help to clarify common doubts and give a better understanding of this practice.
Separating waste makes no difference
Myth: The separation of waste at the time of disposal remains fundamental. When waste arrives organized at cooperatives and sorting centres, the chances of reuse increase and waste decreases.
Waste must be cleaned before recycling
It's true: removing excess food and product waste helps prevent contamination and bad smells, as well as making sorting easier. You don't need to use a lot of water - simple cleaning is enough.
Electronics can't be recycled
Myth: Electronic equipment contains materials that can be reused, such as metals and other components. However, because they have sensitive parts and specific substances, this waste needs to be collected and disposed of properly.
Waste can be recycled more than once
True: many materials can go through more than one recycling cycle. Metals, glass and some types of plastic can be reused several times, which reduces the need to extract new natural resources and reduces the amount of waste disposed of.
Recycled materials are of lower quality
Myth: Many recycled materials retain their properties and can be reused several times without any significant loss of quality. In some cases, the performance of the recycled material is equivalent to that of the original raw material, depending on the type of waste and the process used.
Styrofoam can be recycled
Styrofoam is a type of inflated plastic and is 100% recyclable. When disposed of correctly, it can be reused to create other products, such as new plastic objects.
Recycling alone solves the waste problem
Myth: recycling is an important step, but it doesn't work alone. Reducing consumption and reusing materials are still important practices for reducing waste generation.
Glass can be recycled even when broken
True: even in pieces, glass can be recycled. During the process, it is melted and transformed again, regardless of its original shape, as long as it is free of waste.
Only governments and companies need to worry about recycling
Myth: recycling involves the whole of society. The choices made in everyday life, such as separating and disposing of waste correctly, have a direct influence on how collection and sorting work. When waste is disposed of improperly, even the most organized structures can encounter difficulties in the process.
