There are so many benefits to recycling, but we often don't think about the unsanitary part of the recycling industry. What many people don't realize is that recycled materials have the potential to let off toxic gases and fumes.
Recyclable items may consist of solid waste and other types of unsanitary debris. These materials are typically mixed with water, which can then lead to toxification. In addition, processes like hot-melt granulation of waste plastics emit fumes and potentially dangerous chemicals and emissions such as hydrochloric acid, sulfur dioxide, dioxins, furans, heavy metals, and particulates. These emissions are known to cause respiratory problems and can potentially cause cancer—things that no employer wants for their employees down the line.