Recycling Misconception
Misconception 1: Casually assuming an item is recyclable.
One of the most common misconception about recycling happens when people casually assume or identify recyclables to their convenience when it is a mixed waste. Just because a single portion of the item is recyclable does not mean that the whole item is recyclable.
We can never reiterate enough that recyclables have to always be clean, homogeneous and uncontaminated.
Toys
Toys and Weighing Scale Machines, assumed to be recyclable as there are small components inside. However, it is not recyclable as it is made up of different type of plastics and other different materials.
Syringes with packaging intact
Syringes with packaging intact, assumed to be recyclable as it is made of PP/HDPE. However, it is not recyclable as it is. It is made up of different type of plastics, plastics of different materials, colours, and other different packaging materials – which has to be sorted before it can be properly recycled.
Misconception 2: Casually assuming an item is reuseable or in good-condition, therefore recyclable.
Recycling usually happens as a last resort, when all other means of reusing and repairing is no longer possible.
However, something that is reusable does not equate to it being recyclable.
Misconception 3: Soiled food packaging, tissue papers and kitchen towels are recyclable.
Though these items are made of paper, they are not recyclable as they are contaminated.