Recycle Smart MA just launched the Recycling Road Map, a new, interactive webpage that goes behind the curtain to explain the recycling life cycle. Because after our recycling leaves the curb, how many of us really understand the next steps in the journey? From sorting recyclables and producing marketable commodities, to creating a “new” feedstock for manufacturing goods and returning those items to retailers, this webpage explains it all.

Fun fact: Recycling is a vital part of a manufacturing supply chain that supports over 680,000 jobs and generates more than $37 billion in tax revenue each year!

At our new page, you’ll find answers to questions like these and more:

• How does that jumble of cans, bottles, and paper in the recycling truck get separated?
• Does anyone really want the materials I put in my recycle bin?
• What do old milk and detergent bottles become in their next life?
• Does my community send recycling to a MRF? What IS a MRF?

What you’ll find on the Recycling Road Map webpage is just the beginning. We encourage you to check out our FAQ page, the Recyclopedia, and our newsletter archive to find answers to many common questions.

In the coming months, we’d like to focus our content on questions you care about. Send us your burning recycling questions and help us make the Recycling Road Map even better!