Readers were drawn to news that the Chinese government confirmed a full ban on scrap imports would be coming into effect Jan. 1, 2021. | Wangkun Jia/Shutterstock
Articles about a range of topics drew attention last month, including export restrictions, market prices and our detailed analysis of PPP loan recipients in the industry.
The list below shows our top stories published in December in terms of unique page views.
1 | China confirms expanded import ban starting Jan. 1
The Chinese Ministry of Ecology and Environment last week announced details about the country’s upcoming ban on all materials it classifies as “solid waste,” including recovered fiber.
2 | Recycling operators sound off on packaging EPR
Extended producer responsibility for a wide range of recyclables is gaining steam around the country. Haulers and MRF operators say it’s critical that these proposals are crafted well – both to preserve what already works and allow for much-needed changes.
3 | Scrap paper, plastic and metal prices all rise in December
As the year comes to a close, MRFs are largely seeing good news across the board, fetching higher prices for OCC, mixed paper, aluminum, natural HDPE and other materials.
4 | Lawsuit takes aim at Walmart’s plastic recycling labels
Environmental activist group Greenpeace this week accused Walmart of falsely labeling items as recyclable and asked a California court to compel the retailer to stop making the claims.
5 | Mapping out the recycling firms that received PPP loans
Over $850 million in Paycheck Protection Program funds flowed to MRF operators and recyclables trading companies this year, according to data released following a court order.