In a lively discussion, comedian and fact-checker David C. Smalley reveals the shocking truths behind recycling. He shares why recycling can be beneficial only if done correctly and highlights the unintended consequences of plastic bans. The duo tackles recycling myths, including the surprising impacts of paper and metal recycling. Smalley also warns against 'wish cycling' and stresses the importance of cleaning recyclables to prevent contamination. Together, they demystify the recycling process and encourage smarter waste management practices.
45:57
forum Ask episode
web_stories AI Snips
view_agenda Chapters
auto_awesome Transcript
info_circle Episode notes
insights INSIGHT
Plastic's Unexpected Benefits
Plastics have environmental benefits, like reducing food waste by extending shelf life.
Transporting plastic is often more efficient than alternatives like glass.
insights INSIGHT
The Plastic Bag Problem
Thin plastic bags easily clog recycling machinery and are prone to contamination.
Recycling these bags creates more carbon emissions than making new ones.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Plastic Bans: Not Always the Answer
Avoid banning plastics entirely, as alternatives can be worse.
Focus on improving plastic recycling until better options are available.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Between climate change, global pollution, and a spiraling amount of waste created every single day, we all want to find ways -- even small ways -- to help. And for some people, the easiest way is to recycle. You have a house, plenty of room to separate your garbage, and your city provides different color bins so you don’t get confused between pizza and the box it comes in. And everything works out, right? Well, of course not! Here, we'll weigh the pros and cons of recycling and make sure you're not doing it all wrong.
Welcome to Skeptical Sunday, a special edition of The Jordan Harbinger Show where Jordan and fact-checker, comedian, and podcast host David C. Smalley break down a topic that you may have never thought about, open things up, and debunk common misconceptions.
Does recycling reallyhelp save the planet? Only if you do it the right way (which we'll discuss).
What would be the unintended consequences of banning plastics entirely?
Why some materials that could be recycled aren't.
What are the massive benefits of recycling metals?
How many resources are saved when we recycle paper?
Connect with Jordan on Twitter, on Instagram, and on YouTube. If you have something you'd like us to tackle here on Skeptical Sunday, drop Jordan a line at jordan@jordanharbinger.com and let him know!
The Jordan Harbinger Show