Why Your Definition of “Recycling” is Probably Wrong
You may have a positive association with the word recycling, but its definition is often used for various purposes that can mislead well-intentioned consumers.
I recently wrote about the misuse of the word sustainable, but I realized recycling is another commonly misunderstood term, especially in regards to plastics.
There’s a disconnect between what you think happens compared to what actually happens. The reason you hold this belief is not your fault. In fact, the plastics industry benefits from your misunderstanding.
Here’s the thing:
If you believe plastic recycling works, you will continue buying more plastic. It’s as simple as that.
The most malicious part? Plastic producers have ALWAYS known that recycling plastic would not make financial sense. Below is a speech made in 1974 by an industry insider (according to NPR).
“There is serious doubt that [recycling plastic] can ever be made viable on an economic basis.”
Recycling was never designed to protect the environment. Plastic producers promoted recycling to shift responsibility off themselves and onto consumers. If we individuals are to blame, then plastic producers are free to operate without interference (and roll in the dough!)
