Category Archives: reuse

Know the Differences between Recycling and Reusing before Trading in Corporate iPhone

Recycling and reusing have become synonymous. Majority of the people swap these two terms and think that they have similar meanings. However, in essence these terms are different and represent certain stages in the entire initiative of environmental conservation. It is important to know the difference between these 2 terms to make clear and informed choice for trading in the old device. Giving away your old device responsibly to a company recycling it and making it reusable is wise while throwing it away to the landfill is irresponsible and harmful in the long term.

reuse-vs-recycle

Various initiatives are being taken by the government of different nations to create awareness in terms of saving the environment. The corporate fraternity is actually making lot of effort in this direction and hence they trade in corporate iPhone responsibly. Along with contributing to the movement, it is important to know the difference between recycling and reusing to avoid any confusion arising from the 2 Rs.

Reuse Preceding Recycling

Reuse precedes recycle when it comes to the stages according to US Environmental Protection Agency. These two stages are considered to be the core elements of environmentally-responsible consumer behavior. Product designers are also expected to keep these terms in mind while manufacturing products. In terms of priority also recycling comes after reusing.

The Big Difference

The terms reuse and recycle refer to entirely different processes according to Rutland Council. However, they might seem confusing if not studied properly. In one line the concepts are:

  • Recycle- This process essentially refers to breaking down devices into the smallest units rather raw materials to be used in manufacturing new products. This process consumes lot of energy. This is a significant process which is growing in popularity.
  • Reuse- This simply refers to using a device without really treating it in a major way. Sometimes small treatments can be done to reuse the device instead of giving it away to the land waste. It actually reduces pollution and increases the shelf life of a particular product. This refers to a more sustainable process as well.

Vices of Recycling

Recycling is not all positive. It produces some waste and also contributes to pollution. Though it has been a staple of sustainable living of late, still it produces some downsides. Huge amount of energy is required to transport, process and reassemble recyclable materials and it is quite expensive. Recycling is done for objects that are damaged beyond repair and hence transporting these use time and money.

Positive of Reuse

If any item can be reused, then it is the best option. Repairing is an important part of reusing and it increases the lifetime of objects. Reuse reduces waste and also contributes in saving water supplies and forests. The market also benefits from invasion of quality products. In fact, around 12,000 tonnes of goods were reused during 2013.

Knowing the difference between recycling and reusing can help individuals as well as big corporate houses. Clearing the concept helps in responsible disposal. You come to know whether you will recycle or reuse products. They are not synonymous and that must be known.