The Recycling Conundrum

I have often asked myself, “what really happens to recycling?” and after listening to some podcasts and reading a few articles, it turns out, not much. The cognitive dissonance between people and their recycling is similar or even worse to that of people with their food. Large corporations have brainwashed us to believe that the classic arrow symbol and blue bin reduce and reuse waste while also promoting environmentally friendly actions. Although the truth behind recycling is dismal and discouraging, I suggest we take a step back and asses one positive take away- to consume less. If anything, knowing I cannot rely on the recycling system makes me reconsider purchasing items with a lot of packaging, no matter how “recyclable”.

The greenwashing of recycling brings me to an even larger issue that accompanies the consumer’s duty to recycle: Why is it the consumer’s problem whether or not to recycle? Why can’t comapnies just provide people with alternatives so that we are all not contributing to environmental degredration? The third podcast listed addresses this issue well and is something that I am really interested in. How have companies persuaded consumers into thinking that waste is on them?

Overall, maybe we should take a step back and consider our consumerism. As someone who is very priveldged, I have the capacity to change my actions. The less non biodegradable waste we consume as a society, the less we have to worry about what needs sorting. I know it’s a tough concept… but baby steps!

Here are three stories that I think are nice condensed versions but are super informative and to the point. Let me know your thoughts on the issue!

New York Times “The Great Recycling Con”

99% Invisible “National Sword”

NPR: “The Litter Myth”