Champaign Voices

Plastic Recycling Rates Exposed as Mostly a Feel-Good Sorting Hobby

Published: May 04, 2026

Reporting and audits again suggested much of household recycling never becomes new products, crushing the spiritual high of rinsing yogurt cups. What do you think?

“I've been washing trash for years like a chump.”

“I was right for the wrong reasons.”

“Tell the kids the truth gently. Then invent a better system.”