Difference Between Recycling and Upcycling

Recycling means processing waste and used materials to make them suitable for reuse while upcycling means adapting for new use without changing the essential form of the material. Making pencil cases using plastic bottles or creating a bucket using old tires could be given as examples of upcycling. Converting glass or plastics into new objects through processing is what recycling stands for. Upcycling saves more energy compared to recycling as industries and some process are needed for recycling. Besides, reusing and reducing should also be highlighted regarding their important roles in today’s world. Waste minimization and using something again whether for its original purpose or a different function are some tips for daily life because reducing consumption leads humankind to reduce production. So less waste is produced as a result of that.

Waste can come in two different forms as liquid and solid. Recyclable type includes aluminum products (like milk and tomato cans), Plastics (grocery shopping bags, plastic bottles), Glass products (like wine and beer bottles), Paper products (newspapers and magazines, cardboard boxes). The waste could be easily separated and thrown into proper trash bins.

As it preserves our resources, protects the nature and it reduces landfills, people should recycle, upcycle, reduce and reuse for a better future.