That's Not Quite How It Works

After this conversation with Miriam, I think I may understand now why the girls were so excited that we were getting our recycling can this week.

Miriam: Can we recycle a pudding cup?
Me: Sure, it's made out of plastic, but you need to wash it out really well first.
Miriam: Yay! Now I can get more pudding!
Me: ????? You know that recycling something doesn't mean that you get the same thing back, right?
Miriam: [disappointed look] Oh......[face brightening] So someone else will get the pudding?