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WEEKLY TIP: It's time to trash the myths around recycling

Our focus really needs to shift to using and buying less and then to re-use and refill systems wherever possible, says Sustainable Orillia

EDITOR'S NOTEOrilliaMatters is partnering with Sustainable Orillia to publish a weekly energy tip. Check back here every Tuesday evening for a new tip. For more information, visit the Sustainable Orillia website.

Over the past several decades, we’ve prided ourselves on implementing strong recycling programs here in Orillia.

Support for the Orillia Blue Box program by this community has earned top marks. Lately, however, we are starting to realize that there are many products that do not recycle effectively and many, especially plastics, do not recycle at all.

What’s the answer? Simply, our first focus must be on reduction — using and buying less — and then on re-use and refill systems.

Here are some of the myths surrounding recycling:

Myth #1 

“It’s recyclable”

Companies are increasing their plastic production every year. Globally, however, only 9% of plastic has been recycled.

Just because something says it’s recyclable doesn’t mean it actually gets recycled. The recent sight of container loads of materials sent to China and other Asian countries and the demand that Canada take them back (which we did) makes it clear that we have yet to find good recycling solutions for many products.

Myth #2

“Paper is better than plastic”

While some paper is compostable or recyclable (e.g. newspaper and fine paper), moving to paper products just shifts the problem. Large scale deforestation for pulp to make paper emits large quantities of CO2, contributing to climate change and loss of biodiversity.

Trees are needed across the planet to absorb CO2.

Myth #3

“Bio-plastic is better than plastic”

So-called “biodegradable” or “compostable” plastics break down only under certain industrial temperatures or pressures. They do not biodegrade in a landfill; nor do they compost. “Bio-plastic” may sound better, but it isn’t.

So what’s the answer? Try to buy your food and supplies at stores that are seriously trying to stop selling us throw-away packaging. Remember ... there is no “away.”


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