Different materials are more recyclable than others, but how effective is the practice as a whole?

It’s hard not to feel guilty when throwing away something recyclable instead of waiting to recycle it, even if you’re unsure how much of a difference you’re making. Different studies have different results, of course, but it’s well known that most waste comes from a relatively small number of mega-businesses rather than individuals. That doesn’t absolve us of personal responsibility, of course, but no one becomes more motivated to use a paper straw when they hear about CEOs and their private jets. Maybe you’ve taken to tossing empty cans in the trash or throwing away some cardboard boxes on that fact alone.