At Real Cycle, we’re often asked: Why hasn’t recycling advanced further? For decades, we’ve been bombarded with messages about recycling—yet globally, less than 10% of plastic actually gets recycled. So what’s holding us back? The answer isn’t simple. It’s not just about technology—it’s about economics, incentives, and competing interests. And maybe even something deeper. 1. It’s Expensive—and Often…

We’ve all been told that recycling is one of the simplest ways to help the planet. Toss your plastic bottle in the blue bin, and you’re doing your part. But what actually is recycling? And more importantly—how effective is it? Let’s take a look at the types of recycling happening today, how they work, and why we…

In today’s world, plastic is ubiquitous, permeating nearly every aspect of our lives. From packaging materials to household items, its convenience and versatility have led to an exponential increase in production. However, this surge has brought about a pressing environmental challenge: the overwhelming majority of plastic waste is not recycled. Globally, only about 9% of…

Most of us toss our plastic bottles, food containers, and packaging into the recycling bin with a sense of satisfaction. We’re doing our part. We assume those items will be collected, processed, and turned into something new. But the reality is more complex—and often more troubling—than most people realize. At Real Cycle, we believe that solving…