Recycling: A Process of Sorting approaching_03

At the collection center, the process of sorting begins. The process starts with the materials placed on a large conveyor belt. It looks a bit like the belt you see at the grocery store checkout. People pick out the large pieces of cardboard off the belt. This is done to prevent jams in the machines.

Next, machines sort material by weight and size. For weight, air is used to blow lighter items to one sorting pile. This process works well for sorting paper and plastic from glass and metal. The glass and metal are then run over a screen with larger and larger holes. This process sorts the material by size and shape.

Strong magnets are used to separate out materials that contain iron, such as steel and tin cans. Other metals that do not contain iron are not attracted to the magnet. The magnet does not attract items like aluminum cans.

Finally, glass is sorted according to its color. It may either be sorted by hand or by a machine. Then it can be sold back to businesses. They melt down small glass pieces to make something new.

This process of recycling is also good for the environment. It reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills. It conserves natural resources. It saves energy and reduces pollution.

It also helps create new jobs. Many materials can be recycled over and over again. These items include paper, plastic and glass. What are some ways that you can help your community by recycling? What are some ways that recycling is sorted?