Discuss and research recycling, including consumer choices and the paper recycling process.

Here are the answers to the recycling activities:

Activity 2.1 Discuss recycling

1. I would generally not buy a product if it is not recycled or recyclable, especially if there are suitable alternatives available. This choice is driven by a desire to reduce waste and conserve natural resources.

2. If consumers choose not to buy non-recycled or non-recyclable products, it creates a strong market demand for products made from recycled materials or designed for recyclability. This demand incentivizes companies to invest more in the recycling industry, leading to the development of more advanced and efficient recycling technologies and infrastructure.

Activity 2.2 Research recycling

The recycling process for paper and cardboard involves several key steps:

1. Collection: Used paper and cardboard are gathered from various sources like homes and businesses.
2. Sorting: The collected materials are sorted to remove contaminants and separate different types of paper.
3. Shredding and Pulping: The sorted paper is shredded and mixed with water and chemicals to break down the fibers into a slurry called pulp.
4. De-inking and Cleaning: The pulp is then cleaned to remove impurities such as inks, glues, and staples.
5. Refining and Bleaching: The cleaned pulp may be further refined to improve fiber quality and sometimes bleached to achieve a desired whiteness.
6. Papermaking: The refined pulp is spread onto a screen, where water is drained, and the fibers interlock to form a new sheet, which is then pressed and dried.
7. Finishing: The newly formed paper or cardboard is rolled, cut, and prepared for use in manufacturing new products.