Improving Plastic Recycling: Steps to Boost Rates and Reduce Waste

Plastic permeates many aspects of our lives, often in forms that diverge from the typical plastic items we think of. For instance, recycled plastic finds new life in items like clothing, rugs, and furniture. It’s crucial to keep plastic out of our oceans and make practical use of it. Ideally, we should strive to recycle plastic back into its original form—such as turning plastic bottles into new bottles by recycling our bottles after we use them.

There’s a misleading belief that plastic recycling is ineffective, but according to the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR), 70% of PET and HDPE containers placed in curbside bins are successfully recycled. APR, representing various stakeholders committed to recycling, also notes that the U.S. overall recycles PET, HDPE, and PP plastics at a rate of just 19.8%. This is distinct from the often-quoted 5% recycling rate, which encompasses all plastic types, including those in durable goods like cars and electronics. This 5% rate includes plastics designed to last, not the single use packaging we associate with curbside recycling.

To enhance recycling rates for single-use plastics, several steps are essential:

1. Increase Supply of Recyclables: The APR indicates that their members could potentially double the recycling rate for PET, HDPE, and PP if more of these plastics were available. Companies are aiming to incorporate more recycled plastic into their products, highlighting the need for greater input into recycling systems.
2. Improve Packaging Design: Plastic packaging should be designed to be easily recyclable, meaning it should be made from a single type of plastic rather than mixed materials that complicate recycling.
3. Support Effective Legislation: Effective policies, such as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws and bottle bills, play a crucial role. EPR laws hold producers accountable for the lifecycle of their packaging, while bottle bills incentivize consumers to return containers by offering monetary rewards.
4. Promote Consumer Participation: Educating the public about proper recycling practices and providing clear guidelines can boost participation and reduce contamination in recycling streams.

By addressing these areas, we can significantly improve recycling rates and better manage plastic waste. The solutions are within reach; it’s about mobilizing accurate information and effective strategies to make a real impact. Together, we can continue to advance recycling efforts, reduce plastic pollution, and move towards a cleaner, more sustainable world.