It is estimated that each person generates more than one kilo of garbage per day. If we multiply this unit by the millions of inhabitants and by the 365 days of the year, the figure we obtain may be a sign of excess and waste. The wear and tear suffered by the environment and the scarcity of natural resources extracted from it are well known. Becoming aware of this problem and contributing with small gestures through recycling, both used materials and garbage, is something very simple that contributes to saving energy and preventing the planet’s natural resources.

With recycling, we introduce the materials already used and without any use, in the production cycle converted into raw materials again. Thus, adopting this attitude both in the workplace and at home will bring us multiple benefits, and what is most important, we help maintain a sustainable and habitable environment for future generations.

But recycling does not only consist of separating cardboard, glass, or plastic, it is essential to inform other people with whom you live or work about this action, practice recycling at home and hold everyone accountable. Family members, be in charge of taking the materials to the corresponding container and control compliance with correct recycling. With the passage of time, recycling will become a common task and will be carried out unconsciously, thanks to the total awareness on the subject.

Advantages of recycling

• From the economic point of view, this activity generates more employment in the manufacturing sector, labor is needed to collect the materials and classify them.
• The use of recycled materials in production processes reduces energy consumption, while conserving large amounts of natural resources and reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills or incineration.
• Avoid pollution caused by the handling of virgin materials in the manufacture of products and reduce greenhouse gas emissions that affect global climate change.
• A greater social awareness about the excessive exploitation of natural resources and damage to the environment, which translates into policies for action by governments and companies.

How long does it take for garbage to be destroyed?

When throwing some material in the trash, on most occasions we are not aware of the time it will take to disappear and the effect it causes on our environment:

. Organic waste: 4 weeks.
. Paper: 1 year.
. Butt: 2 years.
. Cans and plastics: 10 years.
. Tetrabrik containers, aerosols and metals: 30 years.
. Steel: 100 years.
. Plastic bottles and plastic corks 100 years
. Plastic bags: 150 years
. Leather, fabric, rubber and synthetic foams: 200 years.
. Batteries and cd: 1,000 years.
. Glass bottles: 4,000 years.