The “5 Rs” in recycling are a practical approach to promoting the reduction, reuse and recycling of waste.
By putting the 5Rs into practice – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Recover and Refuse – we can help preserve natural resources, reduce waste and protect the environment.
Here is an explanation of each R :
The first step is to reduce the amount of waste we produce. This means making informed choices when making purchases and preventing the creation of unnecessary waste. For example, by avoiding over-packaged products or using reusable bags instead of single-use plastic ones.
Instead of throwing things away after their first use, we can reuse them as many times as possible. This can include repairing broken items, donating items we no longer need to charity or sharing items with others. By reusing objects, we extend their lifespan and reduce the demand for new products.
The recycling stage involves collecting, processing and transforming recyclable materials into new products or materials. Recycling reduces the consumption of virgin natural resources, saves energy and cuts greenhouse gas emissions. Commonly recycled materials include paper, plastic, glass and metal. It’s important to follow local recycling guidelines to ensure that materials are sorted correctly.
Recovery comes after reduction, reuse and recycling. It involves extracting raw materials from waste that cannot be reused or recycled directly. For example, energy can be recovered from non-recyclable waste by incineration and electricity generation.
Although not technically part of the “5 Rs”, refusal is a key concept in waste management. This means refusing to buy products that are designed to be disposable or that generate a lot of waste. By opting for sustainable alternatives and making responsible consumption decisions, we can reduce our impact on the environment.
It’s simple: containers, packaging, printed matter!
Most of the recyclable materials accepted meet the following two conditions:
– It’s a container, packaging or printed matter.
– It’s made of paper, cardboard, glass, plastic or metal.
Learn more about everything that goes in the bin on this page.
Separate the various recyclable components of a single item before placing it in the bin (lid and container, flyers and plastic bag, cookie jar and plastic tray, etc.).
Place the materials in a jumble, without nesting them.
Make a bag of plastic bags (including all stretch wrapping and plastic film).
Containers do not need to be rinsed out completely, but emptying them properly (with a spatula) and rinsing them out quickly will help to provide the best possible results.
better working conditions for sorters.
*Note that code 6 is now only accepted at the Quebec City sorting center.
*Indications may vary according to the municipalities served.
Here are some examples of materials that cannot be recycled
Some materials cannot be recycled because of their chemical composition, volume or structural complexity. Here are a few examples of materials not accepted at Société VIA’s sorting centers.
