The Benefits of Recycling Plastic Bags

Many people feel overwhelmed by the term ‘Recycling’. It is nothing but the process of converting waste or old products into new products. Recycling is one of the most important steps towards the reduction of pollution, and it is fun too, especially when done in groups.

Recycling plastic bags reduces the amount of energy usage, raw materials, pollution, as well as the waste Americans produce. It also provides several other environmental benefits.

Saves Energy

The manufacturing process of plastic bags is a long and complicated one. Therefore, it consumes a significant amount of energy. Recycling plastic bags uses energy as well, since they have to be shredded, cleaned,  melted, and remolded, but the energy required is relatively less than what it takes to make fresh plastic bags.

According to a study, recycling 1 ton of plastic bags saves electric energy equivalent to 5,774 kilowatts/hour!

Reduces Oil Consumption

The plastic needed to manufacture plastic bags is made from natural gas or crude oil derivatives. This means that the more plastic bags are manufactured the more nonrenewable fossils fuel will be consumed.

However, recycling plastic bags can cut back on oil consumption significantly. According to a study, recycling 1 ton of plastic bags saves crude oil equivalent to 16.3 barrels.

Reduces Waste

Since plastic bags do not biodegrade, they always exist in landfills and oceans. Nevertheless, recycling used plastic bags significantly decreases the amount of waste that goes to landfills. This helps to reduce land and water pollution as landfills play a major role in the destruction of our environment.

Encourages Sustainable Use

The recycling of plastic bags promotes their careful and sustainable use. Today, recycling plastic bags is easier than ever, as up to 80% Americans have access to recycling programs. Nevertheless, although plastic bag recycling facilities are available, the amount recycled is still relatively low and needs significant improvement.