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0 pointsmistermann12y ago0 comments

My anecdotal understanding of recycling is that something like 90% (????) of waste is industrial, so any consumer efforts to recycle are largely futile in the big scheme of things (not sure if that was their angle, also not sure how much truth there is to it).

I'm of the opinion that most strong advocates of recycling also aren't aware of these numbers, and more importantly, don't care, but maybe I'm wrong on that (but I doubt it from most of the conversations I've had).

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2 comments · 2 top-level

Swizec12y ago

I've always argued Amdahl's law when people tell me I should recycle. When that doesn't work, I start talking about job creation.

Yes, it's a disgusting job. But I imagine for the growing unemployed population back home in Europe that's still better than starvation.

Furthermore, I really really don't have room for three to four different garbage cans in my tiny apartment.

furyg312y ago

If the problem is caused by a culture of consumerism and economic efficiency, do you expect to fix it with a focus on efficiency or cultural change?

Educational and stimulative efforts (through fines or rewards) have been successful in the sense that most people generally agree that being less wasteful and trying to recycle is a good idea, and know/feel that they could do more. This culture seeps into meetings, boardrooms, and annual reports, as well as laws, courts, and policing.

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