ABSTRACT
Recycling involves using materials which are at the end of their useful lives as the feedstocks for the manufacture of new products. Source separation-based recycling programs differ from each other in several respects, including the materials included, whether they provide collection or are drop off programs, and whether they are voluntary or mandatory in nature. Recycling programs that provide collection range widely in their features. The chapter discusses separation of various types of collected recyclables from each other. Separation at a material recovery facility permits simplified collection truck design, and faster, more efficient pickup of recyclables. A number of studies have been done on ways to improve participation in source separation for recycling, and on the determinants of recycling behavior. Within the three-tiered recycling structure of collection, processing, and markets, there are several places where barriers to increased use of recycled materials may arise. The packaging industry must support both research on recycling and implementation of recycling programs.
