The recycling bin — many of us have learned to view this humble container as an environmental superhero. It is, after all, the critical first step in turning our trash into… well, not treasure, but at least more stuff. Or is it? 
In this episode, we take a look at the science to help you understand whether recycling is an environmental boon or hindrance, and we open up the Pandora's box that is plastic. We also dive into what recycling has to do with tackling climate change. (This episode first aired on January 21, 2021.)
Guests: Deia Schlosberg, Sarah Paiji Yoo
Take Action

Check out the Break Free from Plastic campaign

Contact your members of Congress and ask them to push for the Break Free From Plastic Pollution Act 


If there’s a product or a brand that you love, reach out to that company and ask them to change their packaging

Check out Loop, a store that ships your favorite products to you in refillable containers that they take back, wash, and reuse

Check out Deia Schlossberg’s film, The Story of Plastic


 
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Check out our Calls to Action archive for all of the actions we've recommended on the show. Send us your ideas or feedback with our Listener Mail Form. Sign up for our newsletter here. And follow us on Twitter and Instagram.
This episode of How to Save a Planet was produced by Kendra Pierre-Louis. The rest of our reporting and producing team includes Rachel Waldholz and Anna Ladd. Our senior producer is Lauren Silverman. Our editor is Caitlin Kenney. Sound design and mixing by Peter Leonard with original music from Emma Munger.
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