20 new and 10 oldaLL BAGS WOULD BE DIFFERENT.. but new conditions only Why Recycling is Important Reduces waste: Diverts materials from landfills, which helps reduce land and water pollution. Conserves natural resources: Decreases the need to extract new raw materials, which are often finite. Saves energy: Manufacturing products from recycled materials uses less energy than making them from scratch. Lowers pollution: Lessens air and water pollution associated with mining, logging, and refining raw materials.