The diagram illustrates how plastic and glass containers are reused. Overall, there are eight cycles in the process, beginning with the collection of used glass and plastic containers and ending with the production of new items. In general, the system is cyclical, as the recycled products can be reused and re-enter the process.
The process begins with the production of new product items, which are then distributed for use. After being used, these containers are collected over a period of around three to eight weeks. Following collection, they are transported to a recycling centre within five to ten days. Upon arrival, the materials are sorted into different categories; while glass is separated by colour, plastic is classified according to its thickness and overall conditions. This is followed by further processing stages, after which the materials are eventually turned back into new products, completing the outer cycle.
Inside the recycling centre, the materials undergo several detailed steps. The first step is glass crushed into small pieces, whereas plastic is bundled and then shredded. After being processed in this way, both materials are washed thoroughly to remove impurities. Following, they are melted using separate machines before being reshaped into new forms. Finally, the recycled materials are turned into usable products, which can re-enter the cycle and be recycled again.