Municipal Solid Waste Recycling in the United States: Analysis of Current and Alternative Approaches

By: Division on Earth and Life Studies and Board on Life Sciences and Board on Chemical Sciences and Technology and Board on Environmental Studies and Toxicology and National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine and Policy and Global Affairs Division and Board on Sciences, Technology and Economic Ploicy and Committee on Costs and Approaches for Municipal Solid Waste Recycling Programs

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Synopsis: The United States generated approximately 292 million tons of municipal solid waste (MSW) annually, most of which (about 68 percent) were not recycled or composted. Recycling programs face a multitude of challenges today that complicate their stability, efficacy, and economic efficiency. However, a well-designed and supported MSW recycling programs hold many economic and environmental benefits. This report, produced at the request of Congress, reviews available information on MSW recycling programs in municipal, county, state, and tribal governments and provides advice on potential policy options for more effective implementation. Municipal Solid Waste Recycling in the United States explores the contemporary issues facing MSW recycling programs and lays out recommendations and policy options to chart a path forward. Using diverse case studies and publicly available data, this report includes an analysis of economic and programmatic costs of recycling programs and assessment of material-specific recycling approaches. Recommendations include policy options to support effective, economically viable, and environmentally sound recycling practices.