It’s Not Magic, It’s Recycling

Recycling is viewed as a simple way to help keep the environment clean. And that’s true. But did you also know recycled plastic could be made into a new pair of shoes? Or even a new shirt? Recycled plastic is turned into a whole host of products when disposed of properly.

According to a recent study, two-thirds of North Americans prefer to support a company that is environmentally friendly. In order to please consumers while protecting the environment, companies are becoming more conscious by turning to recycled materials for new products. For example, Ikea has created cabinets from recycled plastic; All Birds has built their company on using recycling materials to create sneakers; even the vests worn by Walmart employees are made from recycled plastic.

However, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the recycling rate in the U.S. is just 32.1 percent. Increasing this rate would help protect the environment, create jobs within the recycling industry, and continue to allow companies to innovate with recycled materials–a more sustainable solution than producing virgin plastic.

If each American recycled just one plastic water bottle, the recycled material could make more than 54 million T-shirts or 6.5 million fleece jackets. All while using 88 percent less energy than is required to produce new plastic material.

To show the “magical” transition from plastic bottles to clothes, furniture, bags and more, the Campaign for Recycling Awareness is releasing a new PSA. This video depicts a magician turning materials into brand new products. However, it’s not magic at all. It’s possible due to recycling. Placing plastic items in the recycling bin is something each of us can do every day to ensure more single-use plastic items are given a new lease on life. Watch the new video below.