According to a recent Yale University/EPA study, the U.S. recycles less than 22% of its discarded materials. This U.S. recycling level has not improved in 20 years despite the billions of dollars spent on recycling competitions, symposiums, awareness campaigns and new sorting technologies. 

• Although only 5% of the world population, the U.S. generates more waste than any other country in the world. (World Watch Institute)
• In less than 15 years, worldwide waste is expected to double. (World Watch Institute)
• When U.S. recycling levels reach 75% it will be the environmental and CO2 equivalent of removing 55 million cars from U.S. roads each year.
   
• When U.S. recycling levels reach 75% it will generate 1.5 million new jobs in the U.S.

Manufacturers truly want materials back to reuse in their manufacturing, but they aren’t able to reuse the materials if people don’t recycle correctly.

Always recycle emptied metal food and beverage cans, all emptied plastic bottles and jugs, and all clean office paper, newspaper, and clean and flattened cardboard, and put them in the appropriate recycling bin(s).

Verify if glass bottles and jars are recyclable in your community. Sadly, many communities and recycle programs are starting to reject glass jars and glass bottles.

Never put plastic bags or plastic wrap, plastic cups, dishware, straws, food or food-related paper, paper cups, Styrofoam, paper tissue, clothing, wood, tubes, furniture, batteries, wires, electronics, garden hoses, prescription bottles, or needles, in your recycling bin, unless you have specifically been instructed to. Instead, contact your county or city to learn where to properly recycle, compost, donate, or dispose of those items.

Remember, whenever possible, don’t use, accept or buy single-use plastics.