ISRI Spotlights Economic Impacts of U.S. Recycling Industry

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The preliminary data published by the Washington-based Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (ISRI) suggests that the U.S. recycling industry contributes approximately $116 million in economic output to the country’s economy. The data was released during the recently held virtual 2021 ISRI Annual Convention and Exposition.

The recycling sector directly contributed $46.4 billion to the U.S. economy. The remaining $69.6 billion accounted for contributions by suppliers, contractors and services associated with the sector.

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Based on the study conducted by John Dunham and Associates, the ISRI noted that the U.S. recycling industry supports more than 159,000 direct jobs. This is down by nearly 2.8% from 2019. In addition, the industry supports around 346,499 jobs indirectly, through suppliers and services. Combined, the industry supports nearly 506,000 well-paying jobs. The study cited closure of as many as 170 recycling facilities during the previous year.

Robin Wiener, President, ISRI noted that recycling plays an essential role in not only environment, but also in the US and global economies. The 6.4% rise in total economic output compared with pre-pandemic levels demonstrates the resilience of the U.S. recycling industry.