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The mixed picture reflects three forces moving in different directions, according to an executive from the American Forest & Paper Association. | Seeshooteatrepeat/Shutterstock
US paper recycling rates declined modestly in 2024 even as domestic mills increased their use of recovered fiber, according to the latest report from the American Forest & Paper Association. Continue Reading
Prices for PET, HDPE and PP bales saw significant drops again this month, with paper grades, plastic film and UBCs also marginally lower.
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The Geneva talks ended without agreement, highlighting sharp rifts on production caps, leaving no clear picture of when they might resume. | Maryshot/Shutterstock
After nearly two weeks of tense negotiations, the world’s attempt to forge the first legally binding treaty to end plastic pollution collapsed in Geneva, leaving delegates exhausted, civil groups dismayed and the path forward uncertain. Continue Reading
Executives from paper fiber companies detailed strategies aimed at balancing infrastructure gains with shifting demand and other headwinds. | Jim Barber/Shutterstock
Several U.S. paper and packaging companies moved to reshape operations as they reported second-quarter results amid market softness, cost pressures and shifting demand. Continue Reading
Fire Rover analyzed nine years of data to discover trends in recycling facility fires. | Photo courtesy of Boston Fire Department
Across North America, recycling and waste management facilities are experiencing an increase in reported fires, with 2025 predicted to reach a new annual high. A recent special report by Fire Rover highlights this trend, attributing the record-high reported numbers and escalating financial risks to factors such as lithium-ion batteries, escalating demands from insurers and inadequate control measures. Continue Reading
Industry group Coastal Waste Management Association held a webinar to discuss the new reporting obligations for Canadian waste service providers. | Sherif Ashraf/Shutterstock
Editor’s Note: EPR compliance will be featured in sessions at the 2026 Resource Recycling Conference, Feb. 23-25 in San Diego, California.
Speakers from Coastal Waste Management Association discussed the new reporting responsibilities for Canadian waste service providers, including recyclers, for the Federal Plastics Registry during a recent webinar. Continue Reading
The two organizations maintain the industry standard for acceptable materials, which have been updated for PE packaging as well as for paper cups. | Andy Shell/Shutterstock
The Association of Plastic Recyclers and the Recycled Materials Association have updated specifications for post-consumer plastic bales, following a collaborative development process between the two organizations. Continue Reading
O-I will close the only bottling plant in Oregon, ending a local end market for recycled cullet. | Photo by Jared Paben
A Portland, Oregon glass bottling operation that uses high levels of recycled glass cullet will shut down as part of owner O-I’s wider move to reduce costs and consolidate capacity. It comes after a few years of starts and stops at the plant due to regulations and demand. Continue Reading