Rethinking Recycling

Why? because it’s not what it seems…

We all know someone who is an "optimistic recycler”- the type who uses plastic container with abandon and throws everything into the recycling bin- because it should be recyclable, or they hope it somehow will get recycled… but it doesn’t work that way.

Recycling paper, cardboard, metal and glass works well- keep sorting and recycling those items!

However, plastic isn’t being recycled the way you hope it is. And, the more single-use plastics we use, the more microplastics end up in our bodies- impacting our health. 

What Happened to the Original Recycling Message?

The iconic recycling symbol—those three green arrows chasing each other in a loop—became synonymous with environmental consciousness after the first Earth Day in 1970.

Designed by Gary Anderson during a contest at USC, it was meant to represent a circular process, it signifies three key steps:

1. Collection of recyclable materials,

2. Processing by manufacturers into new products, and

3. Purchase by consumers of items made from recycled content.

If all three steps happen, the loop is closed. But here’s the catch: most of the time, it doesn’t. Most US cities don’t have the infrastructure to accomodate the plastic waste we produce- nor a buyer for the recycled material.

For plastics, the number in the center of the triangle (usually 1–7) refers only to the type of plastic resin used—

not whether the item is recyclable, made from recycled material, or accepted by your local recycling program.

In fact, most plastics are not recycled. Even among those that technically can be, according to a 2022 article by NPR, only around 5 % actually are, because recycling depends on local infrastructure and viable markets for the recycled material.

For decades, the recycling symbol has been misunderstood as a guarantee of environmental friendliness. People often see it as a sign that they’re doing “the right thing”—but this illusion of responsibility has helped perpetuate single-use culture. We've been led to believe that if we just toss something in the blue bin, we’ve done our part. (I didn’t learn this until grad school- so I assume most people aren’t aware either!)

But recycling was never meant to be the first solution.

The Original Message: 1. Reduce. 2. Reuse. 3. Recycle.

That phrase isn’t just catchy—it’s an intentional hierarchy:

1. Reduce what you consume; and

2. Reuse what you already have; then

3. Recycle only when those two aren’t possible.
   

Yet in today’s convenience-driven culture, many people skip the first two steps. We’ve grown used to overconsumption, often buying single-use items with the vague comfort that they’re “recyclable.” If you can toss it into a blue bin instead of the trash bin, you feel better about it, but In truth, it’s not.

A More Conscious Approach: The 6 R’s of Mindful Consumption

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or guilty when we learn how ineffective plastic recycling systems can be. But this isn’t about shame—it’s about awareness and empowerment.

Once we understand that recycling is just one small part of a much bigger picture, we can begin to make more thoughtful choices that align with our values and long-term vision for a healthier life for us and future generations- and our planet.

Let’s build on the original concept and reimagine it for today’s world. Here’s a more thoughtful framework to help reduce waste and support sustainable habits:

1. Reconsider – Do I need this? What’s driving the urge to buy it?
   Example: Before buying a trendy kitchen gadget, ask if your current tools can do the job just as well. Do you need that acrylic sweater that’s $14.99, or can you save up for the nicer, more expensive wool or cotton sweater?

2. Refuse – Say no to unnecessary or wasteful items.
   Example: Decline free swag bags or plastic utensils when getting takeout.

3. Reduce – Buy less, choose well, and prioritize quality.
   Example: Opt for fewer, higher-quality clothing items instead of fast fashion. When planning kid’s party favors, buy a small book, seed packets or stickers instead.

4. Reuse/Repurpose – Get creative with what you already own.
   Example: Use glass jars as pantry containers or a tote bag instead of disposable shopping bags. We all use plenty of glass jars that can be washed and used to store legumes, nuts or seeds.

5. Rehome – Pass along items you no longer need to someone who can use them.
   Example: Donate gently used toys, books, or kitchenware to a local shelter or Buy Nothing group.

6. Recycle – As a last resort, recycle correctly and understand what is recyclable in your community. Example: I live in California and generally plastics labeled 1, 2 and 5 are recyclable. In some cities, plastics labeled 3 and 4 are recyclable, but 6 (often single use cups and plates) and 7 (often baby bottles and sippy cups) are often not accepted. Learn what you use that isn’t recycled and seek out alternatives.

The Bottom Line: (as usual) Progress Over Perfection

Start small. Pick one of the 6 R’s to focus on this week. Maybe it’s saying no to freebies you don’t need, repairing something instead of replacing it, or finally dropping off that donation pile in your trunk. These actions may seem minor—but when multiplied by millions of people, they become a powerful shift.

And don’t forget: you vote with your wallet. When you choose products with minimal packaging, support brands that prioritize reuse and repair, or simply decide not to buy something at all—you’re sending a message about the kind of future you want to help build.

Your Turn: Let’s Talk About “Stuff”

So now I’ll turn it back to you:

• Which of the 6 R’s feels most natural for you?
  (for me it’s reuse- I have plenty of duffle bags that we use for travel that I now use for laundry, and I keep many glass containers and use them in my pantry)

• Which one is a stretch, but something you’d like to try?
  (for me I had to learn to say “no” to free items- do I need another thin tote bag or water bottle? It’s been a mindset shift but very freeing)

• What’s helped you reduce waste and live more consciously?
  (for me, it’s been over the course of 25 years, learning and working in the environmental space about all the impacts our purchases make on our lives)

Drop your thoughts in the comments—and share this post with someone who’s curious about living with less, creating a healthier lifestyle, teaching our children about how to shift our minds from recycling- and doing more for our planet.