Confused about recycling? It’s not your fault | Shannon Odell | TED-Ed Animation

Why are so few plastics recycled? If you’ve ever looked at the bottom of a disposable bottle or cup, you’ve probably noticed a recycling symbol. Seeing this, many people assume the item should be put in a recycling bin. Yet many plastics are incapable of being recycled at most centers. In fact, only 9% is recycled each year. What do these symbols actually mean? Shannon Odell investigates. [Directed Yuval Haker, Alon Sivan, narrated by Addison Anderson, music by Dana Roth].