The diagram illustrates the process involved in the recycling of glass.
Overall, it is a cyclical process consisting of eight stages, beginning with the collection of waste glass and ending with the packaging and distribution of finished products. All stages are man-made, and most are carried out using industrial machinery.
The process begins with the collection of used glass, which is transported to a recycling facility by trucks. Upon arrival, the glass is sorted according to colour before being crushed into small pieces. These pieces are then thoroughly washed to remove any impurities.
In the subsequent stage, the cleaned glass fragments are melted at high temperatures to form liquid glass. This molten material is then moulded into new glass bottles and allowed to cool. Finally, the finished products are packaged and shipped for use. Once used again, they can re-enter the recycling cycle.