COVID-19’s Impact on Recycling

Recycling is critical now more than ever. With businesses closed and social distancing required, household waste has significantly increased. Currently, there is a shortage of paper and cardboard within the manufacturing supply chain because of the strong demand for supplies. Together, we can help by recycling more and recycling right to keep our local programs running, strengthen the U.S. economy, and ensure a cleaner planet. 

Benefits of Residential Recycling Collections

Recyclables are valuable; the boxes, bottles, and paper items you throw in the bin can be converted into new materials and sold to manufacturers. Recycling more can also save communities in disposal costs, as the per-ton expense is often lower than the cost of sending waste to a landfill or incineration facility. Curbside recycling offers the most effective and efficient way to sort, sell, and reuse recyclable items. Consider the many benefits of this valuable program:

1. Supports the Environment
   With curbside recycling, more materials are diverted from landfills, helping to prevent the emission of dangerous greenhouse gases and creating cleaner air and waterways. It also reduces the energy used to produce new materials as well as the need for sourcing raw materials, which can both lead to water and atmospheric pollution.
2. Job Creation
   The United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) estimated that recycling creates ten times as many jobs compared to a landfill. The recycling process involves collecting, sorting, baling, washing, grinding, and re-pulping the recyclable materials before it is made into a new product.
3. Boosts Manufacturing
   Recycling extends far beyond the curb. According to the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (ISRI), 52% of all manufacturing starts with recycled material. When you recycle, you are not only supporting the environment; you are benefitting the manufacturing supply chain to keep essential supplies stocked in grocery stores, hospitals, and homes across the country. 

Midwest Fiber Recycling Facilities Near You:

• Bloomington-Normal, IL
• Decatur, IL
• Peoria, IL
• Springfield, IL
• Champaign-Urbana, IL
• Terre Haute, IN

Have you ever wondered where your recycling goes after it leaves your house? Click here to find out.

For the last 30 years, Midwest Fiber has worked tirelessly to provide convenient and affordable recycling solutions for businesses and residential customers. For more information on single-stream recycling, please call 800-779-6977.