1. By Andie Lasser

2.  Reprocessing used materials reduces energy needs for many manufacturing processes  Recycling used aluminum cans requires only five percent of the energy needed to produce aluminum from bauxite.  Every pound of steel recycled saves enough to light a 60-watt bulb for over 26 hours

3.  Our limited amount of natural resources are disappearing rapidly, with the increasing use of disposable products and packaging.  Every ton of recycled steel saves 2,500 pounds of iron ore, 1,000 pounds of coal, and 40 pounds of limestone.  Recycling often produces better products than those made of new materials

4.  Recycling reduces environmental damage caused by manufacturing processes  Recycling also reduces pollution risks by keeping materials out of landfills.  No matter how strong environmental rules may be, there is always some risk associated with waste disposal.