From Can to New Again | Aussie Recycling

Infographic showing the steps of recycling a can into new items

What is happening?

First, someone enjoys a drink. After that, the empty can goes into a recycling bin instead of the rubbish. A truck takes it away, workers sort it with other metal, and the can is changed back into raw metal.

Why is this helpful?

Aluminium is special because it can be reused many times. That means fewer new materials need to be taken from the ground. Recycling also helps keep parks, schools, and streets cleaner.

What can it become?

A recycled can might come back as another can, part of a bike, a chair, or another metal object. It is a bit like giving the metal a brand-new job.

Try this idea

Look around your classroom or kitchen and count how many cans you can find in one day.
Think about where each empty can should go after it is used.
Talk about what new metal item you would make if you could recycle a can yourself.

Quick Quiz

1. Where should an empty can go after you finish your drink?

Answer: Into the recycling bin.

2. What happens to cans after they are collected?

Answer: They are sorted, melted, and turned back into metal.

3. Name one thing a recycled can could become.

Answer: Another can, bike parts, a chair, or another metal object.