Why is waste sorted?

Short answer

Waste is sorted because different materials need different treatment. This helps facilities recover materials that can be used again. It also keeps power banks separate because they can start fires in collection trucks or waste facilities.

What happens after collection?

At a recycling facility, materials are sorted by type and cleaned of dirt or unwanted items. Recyclable materials can then be used to make new products. Paper, metal, and plastic may go through different steps.

What if plastic is dirty?

One plastic-collection method described by Japan’s Ministry of the Environment does not accept items with food or soil left on them. Local governments may use a different method, so this rule does not apply everywhere.

Why do rules differ by area?

Local governments set rules based on how they collect waste and where it goes next. Since collection and treatment systems differ by area, the same item may need to be sorted differently. Check your local waste guide to find out what to do.

Sources

• Ministry of the Environment, Japan: Packaging Recycling System (Japanese)
• Ministry of the Environment, Japan: Guide to Separate Collection of Plastic Products (Japanese PDF)
• Ministry of the Environment, Japan: Guidelines for Municipal Waste Plans (Japanese)
• Japan’s Ministry of the Environment: Tips for Sorting Household Waste (Japanese)
• U.S. EPA: The U.S. Recycling System