Recycling, as a topic, encompasses the collection, separation, processing, and reintroduction of post-consumer or post-industrial materials into manufacturing cycles to displace primary raw resources. Scientifically, it involves material-specific pathways such as mechanical and chemical recycling for polymers, re-smelting and refining for metals, and deinking and pulping for paper fibers. Research addresses process efficiency, contamination control, life cycle assessment (LCA), and system-level optimization of material flows within circular economy frameworks. Key metrics include recovery rates, material quality retention, embodied energy, and net environmental impact relative to landfilling, incineration, or virgin-material production.
New EU restrictions on toxic substances known as "forever chemicals" in food packaging kicked in Wednesday, along with broader rules aimed at cutting packaging waste in the bloc.
Environment
5 hours ago
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A new white paper released by experts at the UTS Business School highlights the risks businesses face if they ignore growing scientific evidence and consumer awareness of the dangers posed by microplastics.
Environment
Aug 5, 2026
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When trying to make more sustainable clothing choices, many consumers follow a simple rule: Choose natural fibers over synthetic ones. Cotton instead of polyester. Wool instead of acrylic. Linen instead of nylon.
Environment
Jul 30, 2026
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In a study conducted by São Paulo State University (UNESP) in Brazil and the University of Birmingham in the United Kingdom, the presence of chlorinated organophosphorus esters was identified in samples of solid waste—discarded ...
Environment
Jul 28, 2026
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Earlier toilet training and new recycling technologies are among expert-backed solutions to reduce the environmental impact of disposable diapers and other hygiene products, according to a new study led by UCL researchers.
Environment
Jul 23, 2026
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Keeping food waste out of landfills provides climate and other environmental benefits, and Vermont requires residents to divert these materials to better management pathways. With other states considering similar policies, ...
Environment
Jul 23, 2026
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Mandatory curbside collection of soft plastic (chip bags, bread bags, plastic wrap) has just been pushed back from 2027 to 2030.
Environment
Jul 22, 2026
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Who should pay when a product becomes waste—the company that made it or the public? That question sits at the center of extended producer responsibility (EPR), a policy strategy that shifts recycling costs onto manufacturers ...
Environment
Jul 22, 2026
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A new study by Caroline Ganglo and Stefan Karlowsky from the Leibniz Institute for Horticultural Sciences (IGZ) investigated whether human excreta-derived fertilizers are suitable for replacing mineral fertilizer in kohlrabi ...
Agriculture
Jul 15, 2026
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As the adoption of electric vehicles continues to grow, so does the need for the safe and permanent storage of battery materials and industrial chemical waste. Certain waste streams require disposal in what are known as Category ...
Optics & Photonics
Jul 11, 2026
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