How do we recycle plastic?

Plastic recycling is a major issue of our time, faced with the ecological emergency and the need to preserve our natural resources. But how exactly does this process take place? Here is a detailed overview of the different stages of plastic recycling, from collection to processing.

1. Collection and sorting

Plastic recycling starts with collection. Consumers place their plastic waste in specific recycling bins, which are then collected by municipal services. Once arriving at the sorting center, the plastics are separated according to their type. The main types of recyclable plastic include PET (polyethylene terephthalate), used for water and beverage bottles, and HDPE (high-density polyethylene), used for milk containers and detergent bottles.

2. Cleaning

After sorting, the plastics are cleaned to remove food, drink and other contaminants. This process is crucial to ensure the quality of the recycled material. The plastic is then crushed into small pieces or flakes, which are then washed and rinsed.

3. Regranulation

The clean plastic flakes move to the regranulation stage, where they are melted and extruded to form new plastic pellets. These granules can be of different qualities, depending on the purity and type of recycled plastic. They are then ready to be sold to manufacturers to create new products.

4. Manufacturing of new products

Recycled plastic granules are transformed into a multitude of products, ranging from bottles and containers again, to textiles, including automobile parts and even furniture. Recycled plastic is often used in combination with virgin plastic to improve the quality and properties of the final product.

5. The challenges of plastic recycling

Recycling plastic is not without its challenges. The quality and variety of plastics collected can vary significantly, affecting the recycling process and the quality of the final material. Additionally, some plastics, like polystyrene, are more difficult to recycle due to their chemical composition and low density.

6. The importance of participating

Every little bit counts when it comes to recycling. As consumers, we can play a crucial role by properly sorting our waste and opting for products made from recycled materials. This not only helps reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills but also supports the recycling industry and helps create a circular economy.

Recycling plastic is a complex but essential process to reduce our environmental impact. By better understanding how it works, we can all help make the earth a more sustainable place for future generations.