kierrätyslaitos

Kierrätyslaitos, also known as a recycling plant or materials recovery facility (MRF), is a specialized industrial facility where collected recyclable materials are sorted, processed, and prepared for remanufacturing into new products. These plants play a crucial role in waste management and the circular economy by diverting waste from landfills and conserving natural resources.

The process typically begins with the arrival of sorted recyclable materials, often collected from households and businesses. These materials are then subjected to a series of sorting mechanisms. Initial sorting might involve manual inspection to remove contaminants. Following this, automated systems like screens, magnets, eddy current separators, and optical sorters are employed to separate different types of materials, such as paper, cardboard, various plastics, metals (ferrous and non-ferrous), and glass.

Once separated, materials are further processed. Paper and cardboard are baled. Metals are often shredded or compacted. Plastics may be granulated. Glass may be crushed into cullet. These processed materials are then sold to manufacturers who use them as raw materials in their production processes, reducing the need for virgin resources. The efficiency and effectiveness of a kierrätyslaitos are vital for the success of recycling programs and for minimizing environmental impact.