Wondering if you should make the switch and buy products from recycled paper or recycled products from plastic bottles? Does it really make an impact?

Data shows that plastic packaging still accounts for approximately 44% of plastic waste and about 84% of the harmful plastic in oceans. An Accenture report by APCO states that most of the 2025 National Packaging Targets will not be met and even with significant improvements over the next 3-5 years, demonstrating that Australia will fail to achieve half the target.

In the present day, there’s growing awareness of climate change and we’re using Earth’s natural resources more than ever. Buying recycled products in Australia can help plastic waste to remain out of landfill, therefore reducing methane emissions.

Benefits of recycled products

Here are some recycled products benefits and reasons why you should consider making the switch:

  • Recycled products help reduce waste and conserve resources
  • They often cost less than their non-recycled counterparts
  • Recycled products can be just as high quality as non-recycled products
  • They often have a smaller environmental footprint than their non-recycled products
  • Buying recycled products supports recycling programs and businesses
  • Recycled products are often made from recycled materials that would otherwise end up in landfill
  • They can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by conserving energy and resources
  • Recycled products often have a longer lifespan than their non-recycled counterparts
  • They can be used to make new products, which helps create jobs and boost the economy
  • Buying recycled products is a great way to do your part for the environment

Whether it’s a product of recycled paper or a product of recycled plastic, you’ll be making a positive impact on the environment and will help keep unnecessary waste out of landfill.

Types of products made from recycled materials

  • Glass bottles can be recycled and turned into a variety of new products, including countertops, tiles, and even jewellery
  • Plastic bottles can also be recycled and used to create new products, such as packaging, clothing, carpeting, and toys
  • Aluminium cans can be recycled and used to create new aluminium products, such as doors, windows, and gutters. Steel cans can be recycled and used to create new steel products, such as bridges and buildings
  • Paper can be recycled and used to create new paper products, such as newspapers and magazines
  • Cardboard can be recycled and used to create new cardboard products, such as cereal boxes and egg cartons
  • Motor oil can be recycled and used to create new motor oil products, such as lubricants and fuels
  • Batteries can be recycled and used to create new battery products, such as flashlights and car batteries
  • Tires can be recycled and used to create new tire products, such as rubber mats and tires for bicycles

Want to learn more about how you can make a difference?

Products made of recycled materials can help reduce pollution and conserve our natural resources. It’s important to recycle so that we can reduce waste and help preserve our planet for future generations. Recycling is one small way that each of us can make a big difference for the environment.

Learn more about how you can reduce and recycle food waste, especially at home, work, and school as well as help meet our national packaging targets.