ReMA notes the benefits of recycled materials on America Recycles Day

The Recycled Materials Association (ReMA), Washington, has used America Recycles Day, Nov. 15, to remind Americans that recyclable materials are sustainable, resilient and essential to our everyday lives and the global economy.

“From the coffee cup we are using to the cars we drive and the bridges we cross—recycled materials are a part of virtually everything around us,” says ReMA President Robin Wiener. “It’s impossible to go a day—or even an hour—without using a product made at least in part with recycled materials. On America Recycles Day, we celebrate how the recycled materials industry is continuously innovating to recycle more material, more effectively, while partnering with businesses, communities and policymakers to build an environmentally sustainable, economically resilient future.”

From steel, aluminum and copper to plastic, rubber and paper, recycled materials play a critical role by protecting natural resources, reducing carbon emissions and reducing waste, ReMA says:

• Ninety percent of the structural steel used in buildings like hospitals is recycled steel.
• The average car body contains 25 percent recycled steel.
• Ninety percent of all steel used in bridges is made with recycled materials.
• Pizza boxes are made of recycled paper and can be recycled into new boxes.
• Recycled plastic uses 88 percent less energy than sourcing new plastic from primary materials.
• Glass and aluminum are 100 percent recyclable and can be recycled endlessly without losing quality.
• From paper in drywall to the wires that bring us light, our homes contain products made with recycled materials.