What I think the topic starter meant by recycling, is a system that collects recycleable materials and melts the plastics and forms new products from them. Not as they do in 3rd world countries, where they reuse items over and over.
And to say forests are disappearing isn't a well informed statement. Yes there are finite resources on this planet, that if we use up, can not replace. Tree's are NOT one of them. The truth is more and more forests are being planted as demand for products increases. These tree's are harvested and replanted. It is the old growth forests that were in danger. But forests in general? No, we have them aplenty.

But don't take my word for it. Do some research for yourself. Google is your friend.