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Guide to Recycling: The Most Recycled Materials in the USA

The United States has made considerable progress in recycling and waste management, with millions of tons of waste being recycled and composted annually. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Americans recycled 69 million tons of waste and composted 25 million tons in 2018. However, out of the roughly 300 million tons of municipal solid waste (MSW) generated that year, more than half still ended up in landfills. With more awareness and a clear understanding of what materials can be recycled, Americans can divert even more waste from landfills and make a significant environmental impact.

Here are the top recycled materials in the United States and tips for increasing recycling rates at home and work:

1. Paper Products

Paper is the most significant component of MSW, with paper products accounting for nearly 25% of all waste. While paper decomposes in landfills, recycling paper reduces CO₂ emissions, saves trees, conserves water, and maintains biodiversity. Simple ways to cut down on paper waste and promote recycling include going paperless for bills, reading digital publications, and choosing products with sustainable packaging.

Benefits of Recycling Paper:

  • Cleaner Air: Reduces greenhouse gas emissions and conserves fossil fuels.
  • Reforestation: Each ton of recycled paper saves 17 trees.
  • Water Conservation: Uses less water than planting new trees.
  • Biodiversity Protection: Recycling paper reduces the need for monoculture tree plantations.

2. Aluminum Cans

Aluminum cans are highly recyclable, with 75% of all aluminum produced in North America still in use today. Recycling aluminum saves substantial energy and offers an environmentally friendly alternative to plastic. Encourage aluminum recycling by placing cans in designated bins and disposing of electronics at specialized recycling centers, which often contain aluminum components.

Quick Tips to Improve Aluminum Recycling:

  • Use Dedicated Recycling Bins: Ensure aluminum cans are placed in designated bins.
  • Recycle Electronics Responsibly: Many electronic devices contain aluminum components that can be recovered.

3. Plastic Bottles

Plastic is one of the most challenging materials to manage due to its widespread use and slow degradation rate. Recycling plastic saves energy, reduces landfill impact, and protects wildlife. To reduce plastic waste, bring reusable bags when shopping, avoid unnecessary plastic items, and explore sustainable options like shampoo bars and dry products.

Ways to Reduce Plastic Use:

  • Use Reusable Bags: Avoid plastic grocery bags and opt for cloth or reusable bags.
  • Avoid Extras: Decline unnecessary items like straws and plastic silverware.
  • Try Dry Products: Consider alternatives like shampoo bars and powder detergents in sustainable packaging.

4. Cardboard

Cardboard boxes are one of the most frequently recycled items in the U.S., with 32.1 million tons recycled in 2018. Recycling cardboard saves trees and can reduce landfill bulk. For better recycling results, break down boxes and ensure they’re free of contamination like grease or wax coatings.

Tips for Cardboard Recycling:

  • Break Down Boxes: Flatten cardboard for efficient recycling.
  • Check for Contamination: Only recycle clean, uncontaminated cardboard.

5. Glass

Glass is infinitely recyclable but challenging to manage in bulk. Streamlined sorting systems for clear, green, and brown glass can boost recycling rates. Encourage glass recycling by thoroughly cleaning containers and promoting closed-loop systems where glass is recycled back into new glass products.

Ways to Enhance Glass Recycling:

  • Separate Colors: Clear, green, and brown glass should be collected separately.
  • Clean Containers: Rinse glass containers to prevent contamination.

 

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