Kierräytyksen

Kierrätys is the Finnish word for recycling. It refers to the process of collecting and reprocessing waste materials to create new products. This practice aims to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills and incinerators, conserve natural resources, and reduce pollution.

In Finland, kierrätys is an integral part of waste management. Various types of waste are collected separately for recycling, including paper, cardboard, glass, metal, plastic, and organic waste. Municipalities and private companies often manage collection systems, with designated drop-off points and curbside collection services.

Paper and cardboard are typically recycled into new paper products. Glass is crushed and melted down to create new glass containers. Metals, such as aluminum and steel, are smelted and reformed into new metal products. Plastic recycling involves sorting different types of plastic and reprocessing them into new items, though the effectiveness can vary depending on the plastic type. Organic waste, like food scraps and garden waste, is often composted or used in biogas production, which can then be used as a renewable energy source.

The Finnish Environmental Institute (SYKE) and the Ministry of the Environment play roles in promoting and regulating kierrätys. Public awareness campaigns and educational initiatives are common to encourage citizen participation and ensure proper sorting of waste. The goal of kierrätys in Finland is to move towards a circular economy, where resources are used efficiently and waste is minimized.