Postrecycling

Postrecycling refers to the stage of material management that occurs after conventional recycling processes have been completed. It encompasses the utilization of residual materials that are not easily or economically separable through standard recycling methods. This can include materials that are contaminated, mixed, or otherwise unsuitable for reprocessing into new products via traditional streams. The goal of postrecycling is to extract further value from these waste streams, thereby diverting them from landfills and reducing the overall environmental impact of consumption.

Various strategies fall under the umbrella of postrecycling. These can involve advanced sorting technologies that can separate more complex material compositions than traditional methods. Another approach is waste-to-energy processes, where non-recyclable materials are incinerated to generate heat or electricity. Chemical recycling is also a significant component, breaking down plastics into their fundamental chemical building blocks, which can then be used to create new plastics or other valuable chemicals. Furthermore, some postrecycling efforts focus on downcycling, where materials are transformed into lower-grade products, extending their useful life even if they cannot be fully recycled. The development of postrecycling practices is crucial for achieving higher diversion rates and moving towards a more circular economy.