recycling

American  

[ree-sahyk-ling] / riˈsaɪk lɪŋ /

noun

plural

recyclings

1. the collection and processing of used or waste materials so as to make them suitable for reuse, often through a publicly administered program.

2. the act or practice of reusing or adapting something for a different purpose without altering its essential form or nature.

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adjective

1. relating to or engaging in the collection and processing of used or waste materials so as to make them suitable for reuse, or the practice of reusing or adapting things for a different purpose.

recycling Scientific  

/ rē-sī′klĭng /

1. The collection and often reprocessing of discarded materials for reuse. Recycled materials include those used in manufacturing processes and those used in consumer products. The recycled material is often degraded somewhat by use or processing and therefore must be converted to another purpose. For example, the processing of recycled newspaper and other paper wastes usually shortens their fibers, and the material cannot be used to make high-grade paper. Instead, it can be reprocessed to make cardboard or insulation. Recycling helps reduce pollution, prolong the usefulness of landfills, and conserve natural resources.

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Other Word Forms

• anti-recycling adjective
• nonrecycling adjective
• post-recycling adjective
• pro-recycling adjective
• self-recycling adjective

Example Sentences

These are then processed in their own recycling station, with some materials reused.

From BBC

Meanwhile, in the U.S., a company launched by the former head of Glencore’s recycling business wants to harvest metals from old electronics as the U.S. seeks to loosen China’s grip on refining.

From The Wall Street Journal

Birmingham City Council said it would start a new waste collection regime in the summer, including a reinstated recycling service, even if strike action continued.

From BBC

Glencore’s former recycling chief is leading an effort to commercialize a breakthrough in metals processing.

From The Wall Street Journal

That is a far greater range than most recycling operations, Sinha said.

From The Wall Street Journal