World Cardboard Recycling Market Poised for Strong Growth as Sustainability Demand Rises
Paper Recycling | 2026-08-11 05:38:34
The industry is likely to benefit from wider adoption of circular economy policies. Recycled content regulations by various governments have led to increased investment in recycling collection and processing facilities.
By Paul Ploumis
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The global cardboard recycling market is set for steady expansion, primarily driven by increased focus by businesses and governments on waste reduction technologies and sustainable packaging techniques, said a new report published in openPR. The market is projected to reach $80.41 billion by 2030, growing at a 7.7% CAGR during the forecast period.
According to the report, the market grew from $55.31 billion in 2025 to $59.71 billion in 2026, representing a steady growth of 8%. The healthy growth in the recycling market was mainly driven by rising volumes of packaging waste from retail and e-commerce as well as stronger municipal recycling programs.
The industry is likely to benefit from wider adoption of circular economy policies. Recycled content regulations by various governments have led to increased investment in recycling collection and processing facilities.
The sector growth will see a huge boost with the use of advanced technologies such as automated sorting and improved de-inking processes leading to production of high-quality recycled fibers. The use of modern technologies will also reduce contamination and increase the processing capacities of facilities,
The competitive landscape includes major paper, packaging and recycling companies such as Oji Holdings, Stora Enso, Mondi, Georgia-Pacific Recycling, Nippon Paper Industries, Sonoco Products, Klabin and Cascades, the report said.
POLL
What will be the biggest driver of cardboard recycling market growth?
Frequently Asked Questions
- How fast is the global cardboard recycling market expected to grow?
The market is projected to reach $80.41 billion by 2030, growing at a 7.7% CAGR during the forecast period. It increased from $55.31 billion in 2025 to an estimated $59.71 billion in 2026.
- What is driving growth in the cardboard recycling market?
Rising volumes of packaging waste from retail and e-commerce, combined with stronger municipal recycling programs, are key growth drivers. Businesses and governments are also placing greater emphasis on waste reduction and sustainable packaging.
- How are government policies supporting cardboard recycling?
The wider adoption of circular economy policies and recycled-content requirements is encouraging investment in recycling collection and processing infrastructure. These regulations are increasing demand for recycled cardboard and supporting the development of recycling facilities.
