• Recycling conserves energy and natural resources, reduces pollution, and helps prevent landfills from filling up. The more we recycle, the longer our available landfill space lasts.
• Recycling generates less pollution. There are many items that should not be disposed of in the trash, because waste has a huge negative impact on the natural environment. 
• Sorting recyclable materials creates jobs at recycling plants.

The recycling process can be confusing since it can vary from one area to the next, depending on local companies and the recycling market in the area. It's especially  confusing if you relocate and have to relearn the details of what can be recycled. The problem is if we try to recycle something that is not accepted, it can contaminate the complete batch. 

Some items have the recycle symbol with a number so you know whether it can be recycled, but many items don't. If you don't find the information on Recyclopedia please contact your local recycling program for their specific recycling details.