Sorting and Saving Materials in Recycling
The article explains multi-stream and single-stream recycling. It notes benefits of single stream ease and higher participation but warns about contamination and incomplete separation. It describes how Waste Management workers monitor the conveyor belt to remove contamination and protect recycled material quality.
Sorting Through the Stream of Single-Stream Recycling
The article explains how a single stream recycling plant handles mixed recyclables on a conveyer belt. Cardboard is separated by star-shaped rollers, paper is blown onto its belt, glass is diverted to bins, and color sorting uses optical machinery. Metals are removed by magnets and eddy currents, aluminum is separated and baled, with can bales weighing 1 to 3 tons.
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