In theory, recycling would allow a continuing reuse of materials for the same purpose. In practice, recycling most often extends the useful life of a material, but in a less-versatile form. Consumer recycling has succeeded mostly in reducing industrial consumption of energy and water. Production of materials such as aluminum and glass require large amounts of electricity or fossil fuels. The recycling of such materials is profitable and prevents a substantial amount of greenhouse gas emissions.

Skeptics believe that, with the exception of aluminum cans, recycling is wasteful. In particular, the market for recycled materials is limited, and using recycled materials may be more expensive for manufacturers than new raw materials.

Recycling becomes cheaper when costs associated with raw material extraction and the increased need for landfills (or incineration plants) for waste materials are included. If environmental and health effects are figured in, recycling may be socially efficient even when carried out at a financial loss.