Explain the concept of recycling as a waste management technique

Recycling is a waste management technique that involves processing used materials into new products to prevent waste of potentially useful materials, reduce the consumption of fresh raw materials, reduce energy usage, reduce air pollution (from incineration), and water pollution (from landfilling) by reducing the need for "conventional" waste disposal. It typically involves collecting discarded materials, sorting them by type, processing them into raw materials, and then manufacturing new products from these recycled raw materials. This cycle helps conserve natural resources and reduces the environmental impact of waste.