U.S. Paper Industry Witnessed Robust Recycling Rate in 2020

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The Washington-based American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) announced paper recycling report for 2020.

Nearly 65.7% of paper consumed in the country was recycled during the year. The recycling rate has nearly doubled when matched with levels in 1990. However, this is marginally down from 66.2% overall recycling rate recorded in 2019. Since 2009, the paper recycling rate has either met or exceeded 63%.

The AF&PA report pointed to record consumption of old corrugated containers (OCCs) by U.S. mills during the previous year. The mill consumption touched a record level of 22.8 million tonnes in 2020. The recycling rate for OCC was 88.8% in 2020, compared to 92% in 2019.

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Heidi Brock, President and CEO, AF&PA noted that almost two-thirds of paper was recycled and transformed into new sustainable paper products during a year which was marked by Covid-19 pandemic impacts. The resilience and commitment of the industry has resulted in the consistent and high rate for paper recycling. The U.S. paper industry plays an essential role, she added.

The U.S. paper industry has made, planned or announced nearly $4.1 million in infrastructure investments from 2019 to 2023.