U.S. Manufacturers Need a Stronger Plastic Recycling System
The U.S. has an opportunity to lead in plastic recycling and remanufacturing, creating a more secure, circular supply chain that benefits both the economy and the environment. By modernizing recycling infrastructure and supporting policies that remove barriers, we can increase the supply of high-quality recycled plastics—helping industries that rely on these materials to make more sustainable products.
Building a Reliable American Supply of Recycled Plastics
Simply put, supply of recycled plastics is not keeping up with demand. A steady supply of recycled plastics is critical for U.S. manufacturers looking to incorporate more recycled content into their products. Sectors like automotive, packaging, consumer goods, and construction all depend on plastics to create lightweight, durable, and energy-efficient materials. But without efficient recycling systems and investments in advanced recycling technologies, companies struggle to secure the recycled content they need.
Boosting Recycling Innovation & Collection Access
Technologies like AI-powered plastics sorting and advanced recycling can improve efficiency and expand the range of plastics that can be remanufactured into new materials. Expanding and improving curbside collection programs and providing greater access to recycling can also help increase the volume of used plastics re-entering the supply chain.
Smart Policies for a More Circular Economy
To truly scale plastic recycling and strengthen supply chains, we need (and support) policies that:
- Streamline permitting for new recycling and remanufacturing facilities
- Support public-private partnerships to expand recycling access
- Establish national recycling standards to create consistency across states
- Incentivize the use of recycled content in manufacturing by requiring all plastic packaging to include at least 30% recycled plastic by 2030.
A Stronger, More Sustainable U.S. Market
Plastics support over 26% of U.S. manufacturing. Providing a steady supply of recycled materials will help multiple American business sectors reduce waste and use our available resources more efficiently. By modernizing our recycling system, we can strengthen domestic supply chains and position the U.S. as a leader in plastic sustainability.
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