ABSTRACT
Recycling is a topical issue and has a strong impact on society, waste collection, and disposal, being perceived as one of the basic elements that conditions the quality of life. Recycling can be done through two types of actions: reuse and recovery. The advantages of recycling are conserving natural resources, reducing storage space and protecting the environment. The fundamental issues in recycling materials are related to identification of recyclable materials; identifying opportunities for reuse and recycling; and identification of markets for redeemable materials. The most important recyclable materials are paper, metals, plastics, and textiles. At the basis of the waste management activities, several principles set out in the Romanian management strategy and the community legislation. The principle of primary resource protection refers to the need to minimize and streamline the use of primary resources, focusing on the use of secondary raw materials. To improve the living conditions in Romania, these natural resources need to be exploited in a sustainable manner.
