Several goods and economic benefits are derived from the recycling process. Communities are positively affected by recycling in a variety of ways, shown by an abundant number of facts presenting how recycling is beneficial. For example, “Recycled copper accounts for nearly half of total U.S. copper consumption” (Wiener). And, “One-third of the U.S. aluminum supply comes from recycled material” (Wiener). In 1994, Horrigan wrote, “But the recycling industry has been steadily maturing: It now diverts almost 24 percent of the nation 's municipal waste to productive uses” (Horrigan). Certain items such as newspaper and plastic are able to be recycled and used for the same purpose as before; often time, the price is lower for these resources after recycling too (Horrigan). Along wi¬¬¬¬¬¬¬th resources, recycling is a key economical factor, and only helps the economy more as recycling technology advances. Over 471,000 jobs have been created in the United States thanks to recycling and nearly 106 billion dollars have been generated through recycling (Wiener). Occupations are widespread across the United States: transportation, manufacturing, wholesaling, retailing, mining, government and more (Wiener). A common misconception is that installing recycling programs will add to the overall cost, but over time that money will pay off, especially as new designs …show more content…
Counterarguments claim that landfills are not hazardous nowadays, but statistics have shown that reduced landfills have led to reduced hazardous wastes (Horrigan). Additionally, the point that a national landfill would only cover thirty-five square miles may be true, but the fact is that there will not be a national landfill. These landfills are spread throughout cities in the United States, which pollute various areas. Recycling programs may need money to start up, but when the programs are running well, jobs are occupied and cities make money. The act of recycling is not picture-perfect at the moment, but it still needs to be relevant in the United States. Technology will only advance recycling efforts as well. If Americans are informed of the benefits recycling can bring to the county, the everyday citizen should be inclined to participate more in recycling activities. Completed, scientific research proves that recycling is efficient, so this will enhance popularity and encourage programs to expand. Therefore, recycling should maintain being utilized and advanced by Americans because it will preserve the environment and furnish