No one can argue that recycling is not creating jobs anymore. For years, the argument against green-friendly policies and environmental sustainable practices was that it would threaten ‘traditional jobs’ and would not produce the same economic activity. As time has passed, that view has been found to be wholly inaccurate.
Recycling and other environmentally sustainable practices have produced thousands of jobs and millions upon millions of dollars in economic activity. Today’s recycling agencies are taking in millions in profits every year and waste management remains a vital component to most municipalities spanning North America.
Every time a material is recycled, there is someone overseeing that process and cents being made. The recycling of wine bottles, screw-in fluorescent bulbs, desktop computers, and other items are saving society energy while, at the same time, continuing to contribute to a multi-million dollar industry still growing.
The future’s biggest corporations and companies may one day be those tasked with overseeing waste management. The high level of consumption already present in developed countries is unlikely to dissipate. Even though we may change the nature of how we use materials and what materials we use, waste management and recycling companies are still going to be required.
There may even be a day when the consumer can potentially generate their own income off of recycling. Imagine being able to return materials for recycling and be provided with financial compensation for these efforts. Even if this compensation amounted to a few cents per item, needless to say, it would add up. Such a program could also be an excellent way to provide homeless persons with employment opportunities, generating further economic activity.
There’s no reason that North American society cannot achieve all of its recycling goals and more. The only thing that is standing in the way is the time, money, and technology. Governments continue to work on policy, financial investment continues to be made in waste management, and technology is advancing at a feverish pace. The millions that recycling companies are generating today will no doubt one day turn to billions.
Things cannot happen fast enough. There is still far too much plastic being included in our waste and education on recycling opportunities is less than what one might prefer. To get consumers, companies, and government to take on recycling as a necessity, education is a must.
The importance of building a strong recycling industry in Canada goes beyond the financial activities mentioned in this article. Canada has a number of resources and opportunities for resource development, potentially resulting in significant environmental consequences. As the country mines its resources for financial gain, waste management is going to be a key determinant in keeping Canadians safe and free, even in times of mass consumption and resource development.
For any concerned citizens, companies seeking to do more with their waste, and/or anyone who is looking for more environmentally-friendly opportunities to recycle, reuse, and reduce, we would love to speak with you. As a premiere waste management and recycling company, we have worked on hundreds of projects, maximizing waste output processing and minimizing what ends up on our landfills. By protecting the environment and ensuring waste is properly processed, it is our hope to keep Canada strong, safe, and healthy for generations to come.
