Fact check: Does new hampshire end up throwing away most recycled materials?

1. Summary of the results

1. Summary of the results:

The data doesn't support a simple yes/no answer about New Hampshire's recycling fate. While there are significant challenges, many NH communities maintain effective recycling programs through source separation, while others have adapted their strategies for specific materials like cardboard and glass.

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints:

• Over half of NH communities use source separation recycling, which produces cleaner, more recyclable materials
• The state recently passed SB 367, promoting "advanced recycling" (chemical recycling), though environmental groups like the Conservation Law Foundation argue this is effectively incineration
• China's National Sword policy significantly disrupted recycling markets, forcing communities to adapt
• The Northeast Resource Recovery Association (NRRA) is actively developing domestic recycling solutions
• Some communities have found success with specialized programs like processed glass aggregate

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement:

The question implies a binary outcome (either materials are recycled or thrown away), which oversimplifies a complex system. This framing ignores:

• The varying success rates between different types of recyclables
• The distinction between single-stream and source-separated recycling
• The role of chemical recycling companies, who benefit financially from promoting the narrative that traditional recycling is failing
• The interests of environmental groups like the Conservation Law Foundation, who advocate for reducing plastic manufacturing rather than focusing solely on recycling solutions

The reality is that while some materials do end up in landfills, many communities have adapted their recycling programs to remain viable, though the methods and success rates vary significantly by material type and location.