Have you ever wondered what happens to our waste and separated raw materials after we throw them away? Collected raw materials go to a processor. There, they are converted into raw materials that are used for new products. In this way, we need to extract fewer new materials from the earth, leaving less residual waste to be incinerated. Because anything we have to burn is gone forever. And that's a shame. That's why separating waste is so important!
What are commodities?
Raw materials are materials used to make new products. Think of paper, plastic, metal and packaging glass. These materials can be recycled and turned into new products. By separating waste, we can ensure that these raw materials are put to the best possible use and not lost.
Why is separating waste so important?
Separating waste is vital for several reasons:
- For preserving natural resources. By separating and recycling waste and raw materials, we can reduce the use of new raw materials. Thus, we save precious natural resources such as trees (for paper), petroleum (for plastic) and ore (for metal).
- For reducing waste. By separating and recycling waste and raw materials, we can reduce the amount of waste going to the incinerator. This reduces CO2 emissions.
- For energy savings. Recycling raw materials often costs less energy than producing new raw materials. So by recycling raw materials, we can save energy and reduce CO2 emissions.
Which raw materials are important?
When separating waste at home, there are important resources to watch out for:
Paper
Paper can be recycled about 7 times and used to make new paper. For example, A4 paper can become a newspaper and a newspaper can become toilet paper again.
Plastic
Plastic can be recycled and used for new plastic products.
Metal
Metal, such as tin cans and aluminium foil, can be melted down and reused for new metal products. By recycling metals, we save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Glass
Packaging glass can be infinitely recycled without loss of quality. By collecting glass separately, we can turn it into new glass bottles and jars.
Gft
Vegetable, fruit, garden waste and food scraps (GFT) are perfect for making compost. Putting compost between shrubs, plants and crops increases the quality of the soil and allows rainwater to drain better.
How can you help?
The good news is that you yourself can contribute to the process of turning waste into new raw materials! You can take a few simple steps to do so:
Separating waste
Make sure you separate waste properly at home. Use separate bins or bags to make waste separation easier. Read our blog with useful tips on how best to separate your waste.
Use the separation guide
Use the handy online divorce guide or use the separation guide in the Waardlanden app. Then you will know exactly which waste belongs in which bin or container and what can or cannot be recycled.
Reduce your waste
Try to be conscious of use and reduce the amount of waste you produce. For example, use reusable bags, bottles and containers.
Together, we make a difference!
By properly separating waste and raw materials, we can preserve valuable resources and contribute to a more sustainable world. So let's all do our bit and make a difference together!