Recycling is the process of collecting and processing materials that would otherwise become waste, transforming them into new products. Municipal recycling programs collect paper, cardboard, glass, metals, and certain plastics from households and businesses through curbside pickup or drop-off depots. Collected materials are sorted, processed, and sold to manufacturers. Recycling reduces landfill use, conserves resources, and can lower greenhouse gas emissions. Program success depends on participation rates and market demand for recyclable materials. Extended producer responsibility programs in some provinces shift recycling costs from municipalities to producers. What's recyclable varies by community based on local processing capabilities and markets.