What does the recovery position facilitate for an unconscious but breathing person?

The recovery position is designed to maintain an open airway and ensure that the person can breathe more comfortably and easily. This position helps to prevent the tongue from obstructing the airway and minimizes the risk of aspiration should the person vomit. By lying on their side, the individual is in a safer orientation that allows gravity to assist with draining any fluids away from the airway, further aiding their ability to breathe without obstruction. This is particularly important for an unconscious person who is still breathing, as their ability to protect their own airway is compromised.

While the other aspects of health and safety are relevant in different contexts, the primary and immediate aim of placing someone in the recovery position is to ensure that they can breathe adequately, which is why this answer is the most appropriate in the context of the question.