Plastic is too valuable to waste it belongs in the recycling bin.
Plastic makers and recyclers have invested billions of dollars to help support a nationwide infrastructure to recycle plastic packaging, and we continue to develop new, innovative programs to collect additional plastic products. More and more communities across the nation are turning to recycling as an effective way to help the environment and to prevent litter.
For example, plastic bottle recycling by consumers increased 115 million pounds in 2007 (up 5.2%) to reach a record high of more than 2.3 billion pounds for the year (the amount has increased every year since 1990).
Plastic bags and film recycling increased significantly across the United States. in 2007, reaching a record high 830 million pounds, a 27% increase over 2005.
And more than 325 million pounds of rigid household containers (e.g., plastic tubs, trays and lids) were recycled in the United States that year.
Today, more than 80 percent of U.S. households have access to a recycling program, either curbside collection or a community drop-off center.
Learn more about plastic recycling, including tips for consumers.
Learn more about the latest plastic bottle recycling statistics.
Learn more about how to recycle more of the plastic bags and wraps you use.
Learn more about the latest statistics for recycling plastic bags and wraps.
Learn more about plastic bag facts.
Learn more about the latest statistics for recycling household plastic containers.
View presentation on actions by America’s plastics makers to prevent marine debris (June 2009).