Module 2: Fundamentals of Recycling

In this module, we will delve into the recycling process, explore which materials can and cannot be recycled, and understand the benefits of recycling for both the environment and the economy. Mastering these concepts will enable you to recycle more effectively and contribute to a more sustainable world.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this module, you will be able to…

Distinguish between recyclable and non-recyclable materials in everyday items.
Describe the process of recycling and its environmental benefits.
Implement recycling practices in your household based on local guidelines.

How Recycling Works

How Recycling Works (youtube.com), uploaded by SciShow, 2015.

Recyclable Materials

Infographic: Reducing and Reusing

Title Section:

The top part of the poster has a background with blue and torn tape-like edges displaying the title “REDUCING & REUSING” in white, bold capital letters.

Benefits Section:

Beneath the title, the word “BENEFITS” is written in blue, upper case letters and underlined.

Left Icon: A blue factory with a speech bubble showing a cloud, labeled “Reduces greenhouse gas emissions.”
Middle Icon: A green plug and plant leaves, labeled “Lowers energy and resource consumption.”
Right Icon: A pink piggy bank, labeled “Saves Money.”

Actionable Tips Section:

Below the benefits, the phrase “ACTIONABLE TIPS” is written in blue, upper case letters and underlined.

Tip about thinking green:
- Icon: An icon of a shopping cart filled with green-colored items.
- Text: “Think Green Before You Shop: Reduce emissions by buying only what you need.”
Tip about reducing food waste:
- Icon: An icon of a shopping cart filled with green-colored items.
- Text: “Reduce Food Waste: Shop smart, compost scraps, and donate unused food.”
Tip about reusing and repurposing items:
- Icon: A blue t-shirt.
- Text: “Reuse and Repurpose Items: Use old clothing, cloth bags, and containers.”
Tip about buying used and recycled products:
- Icon: A blue t-shirt.
- Text: “Buy Used and Recycled Products: Purchase used items and products with recycled content.”
Tip about maintaining and repairing products:
- Icon: Wrenches and a screwdriver crossing each other inside a circle.
- Text: “Maintain and Repair Products: Extend product life by repairing clothing, tires, and appliances.”
Tip about borrowing or renting items:
- Icon: Wrenches and a screwdriver crossing each other inside a circle.
- Text: “Borrow, Rent, or Share Items: Share infrequently used items like tools and decorations.”

Concluding Message:

At the bottom, in bold black text: “Start small, make a big impact – reduce, reuse, and recycle.”

Source Reference:

At the very bottom, a URL is provided in smaller font: https://www.epa.gov/recycle/reducing-and-reusing-basics.

Activity: Repurposing Common Items

Instructions

Identify Common Items: Gather a selection of common household items that you no longer need or use.
Research Repurposing Ideas: Research online or use creativity to brainstorm ideas on how these items can be repurposed instead of being discarded.
Brainstorming Session: List different ways each item could be repurposed. Think creatively about its potential new uses.
Select Repurposing Projects: Choose one or more ideas that you find interesting or practical to pursue.
Create Prototypes or Plans: Develop sketches, diagrams, or plans for how you will repurpose the selected items.
(Optional) Implement Your Ideas: Start repurposing the items based on your plans. Be creative and enjoy the process.
Reflect on the Experience: After completing your repurposing projects, take time to reflect on the experience. How did you feel about exploring different ways to use everyday items creatively?

Module 1: Introduction to Waste Management

Module 3: Consumer Consciousness