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NC State Extension

Recycling & Solid Waste Reduction

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What is Recycling?

Graphic of recycle logo It has three arrows in a circular motionRecycling is the process of taking a product that can no longer be used and making another product from all or part of it. The internationally-recognized symbol for recycling is three arrows moving in a triangle. Each arrow represents a different part of the recycling process, from collecting used materials, to re-manufacturing them into new products, and then reselling them.


Why Recycle?

a pile of full green plastic bagsRecycling offers many advantages, including:

  • Reduces the consumption of raw materials
  • Decreases air and water pollution
  • Lowers energy usage
  • Reduces the need for more landfill space
  • Creates jobs
  • Reduces waste disposal costs
  • Generates revenues from the sale of recyclable materials
  • Provides raw materials for industry
  • Keeps habitats intact
  • Reduces greenhouse gas emissions

Recycle these items that are banned from NC landfills

  • Aluminum cans
  • Appliances
  • Antifreeze
  • Beverage containers from ABC permitted facilities
  • Computer equipment
  • Lead-acid batteries
  • Motor oil
  • Motor oil filters
  • Oyster shells
  • Plastic bottles
  • Scrap tires
  • Televisions
  • Wooden pallets
  • Yard debris (leaves, grass, branches, etc.)

Recycling Resources

Recycling Extension Publications

by Rhonda Sherman, Extension Specialist

North Carolina Recycling Information


Recycling Links

Written By

Rhonda Sherman, N.C. Cooperative ExtensionRhonda ShermanExtension Solid Waste Specialist (vermicomposting, composting, recycling) Call Rhonda Email Rhonda Horticultural Science
NC State Extension, NC State University
Page Last Updated: 7 months ago
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