Science Learning Hub logo
TopicsConceptsCitizen scienceTeacher PLDGlossary
Sign in
Image

Recycling codes and practices are based on the properties of the materials

bottom of a white plastic bottle showing recycling code stamp

Waste is classified based on the physical properties of rubbish (rāpihi). Rubbish is sorted into categories (rōpū, wehenga) so that it can be disposed of in the most effective way. 

Source separation is when the consumer sorts their rubbish into landfill and recyclable refuse. The transfer stations or recycling companies then sort (whakawehewehe) this material again according to the different properties such as colour. 

Related article

  • Waste management

Related activities

  • Plastic – reuse, recycle or rubbish game

  • What happens to our plastic bottles?

  • DIY plastic recycling plant

Related videos

  • Recycling – part of the problem and part of the solution

  • What can we recycle? – learning opportunity 2

  • Auckland recycling – learning opportunity 1

  • Sorting technology – learning opportunity 2

  • PET recycling and the circular economy

  • PET plastic recycling process

Related images

  • Used New Zealand plastic baled and ready to be recycled

  • Plastic types and uses

Glossary

Rights: The University of Waikato Te Whare Wānanga o Waikato
Published: 8 March 2022Size: 1.4 MB
Referencing Hub media

Explore related content

Appears inRelated resources

Interactive

Rubbish: how do we deal with it?

The concepts listed just above the overarching concepts reflect learning at New Zealand Curriculum level 1 and show how they ...

Read more
Plastics and recycling

Article

Plastics and recycling

Plastic is an amazing material. It has changed the way we store and carry food, drinks and other items. Plastic ...

Read more
Material World – Recycling and biodegradability

Teacher PLD

Material World – Recycling and biodegradability

Below are links to Science Learning Hub resources for primary teachers related to recycling and biodegradability in the Material World ...

Read more
Building Science Concepts: Rubbish

Teacher PLD

Building Science Concepts: Rubbish

Explore the science concepts that underpin knowledge and understanding about rubbish, how we identify and classify it.

Read more

See our newsletters here.

NewsEventsAboutContact usPrivacyCopyrightHelp

The Science Learning Hub Pokapū Akoranga Pūtaiao is funded through the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment's Science in Society Initiative.

Science Learning Hub Pokapū Akoranga Pūtaiao © 2007-2025 The University of Waikato Te Whare Wānanga o Waikato