U.S. Plastic Recycling Hits 5.1 Billion Pounds, Says APR
Plastic Recycling | 2026-07-20 08:04:09
The findings also showed that 94% of recovered plastic was processed within North America, with U.S. recycling facilities handling the majority of the material.
By Paul Ploumis
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Plastic recycling in the U.S. reached a new milestone in 2024, with more than 5.1 billion pounds of post-consumer plastic recovered, according to a new industry report released by the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) and the U.S. Plastics Pact.
The study found that U.S. recycled plastic volumes increased by nearly 115 million pounds compared with 2022, reflecting continued progress in recovery efforts despite difficult market conditions. Among material categories, plastic film recorded the strongest growth. However, recovery of plastic bottles and non-bottle rigid plastics declined during the reporting period.
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Despite the increase in recycling volumes, the report highlighted ongoing challenges facing the industry. Weak demand for recycled plastic resin, low prices for virgin plastic, and high processing costs continued to pressure recycling businesses and limit investments in expanding recycling capacity.
The findings also showed that 94% of recovered plastic was processed within North America, with U.S. recycling facilities handling the majority of the material.
Industry leaders emphasized that stronger government policies are needed to increase demand for recycled plastics and encourage long-term investment across the recycling value chain. The report also noted that seven U.S. states have now adopted Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- How much post-consumer plastic was recycled in the U.S. in 2024?
More than 5.1 billion pounds of post-consumer plastic were recovered for recycling, setting a new milestone for the industry.
- Which plastic category recorded the strongest growth?
Plastic film posted the strongest increase in recycling volumes, while recovery of plastic bottles and non-bottle rigid plastics declined.
- What challenges continue to affect the U.S. plastic recycling industry?
Weak demand for recycled plastic resin, low virgin plastic prices, and high processing costs continue to pressure recyclers and discourage investment in expanded recycling capacity.
