How does recycling reduce GHGs and contribute to protecting the earth from climate change?
As waste materials undergo anaerobic decomposition in landfills, methane gas is produced and released into the atmosphere; when waste materials are incinerated, carbon dioxide (CO2) is released into the atmosphere. The addition of these gases to the earth’s atmosphere can have a warming effect on the earth. GHGs occur naturally and help trap heat in the upper atmosphere, creating climates that sustain life on our planet. However, increased concentrations of these gases can contribute to rising global temperatures, sea level changes, and other climate changes. Recycling prevents methane gas and CO2 emissions from landfills and incinerators by reducing gas-releasing waste in our landfills and incinerators. To understand more about the link between material solid waste and GHGs, visit EPA’s general information Web site on Climate Change or check out the the U.S. Greenhouse Gas Inventory Reports.
