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US Plastics Pact estimates 13.3% packaging recycling rate

Published: February 27, 2023
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Plastic packaging

The estimate was derived using data from the U.S. EPA and industry associations APR and NAPCOR. | Photka/Shutterstock

A report from the U.S. Plastics Pact found a national recycling rate of 13.3% for plastic packaging and an overall potentially recyclable, reusable or compostable rate of 36% for Pact members.

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Haulers felt commodity price pains late in 2022

Published: February 27, 2023
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truck

Executives expressed mixed opinions about whether commodity prices would increase or remain flat in 2023. | Courtesy of Republic Services

A late-year crash in commodity prices crippled what would have otherwise been a strong 2022 for some of the largest recyclables sorting and marketing operations in North America. 

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In My Opinion: EPR can shift recycling into high gear

Published: February 6, 2023
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Dylan de Thomas with The Recycling Partnership believes that EPR policies could help the U.S. achieve higher recycling rates. | vvoe/Shutterstock

The last several years have been a real roller coaster ride in the news for recycling, with the industry being called all manner of pejoratives, up to and including “dead.”

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California works to form key EPR advisory board

Published: February 21, 2023
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CalRecycle is looking for 16 people to facilitate implementation of its landmark EPR law. | ksanawo/Shutterstock

California officials are accepting applications from industry professionals who want to advise the state as it implements an extended producer responsibility program for curbside recyclables. 

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Oregon counties collect batteries at curbside

Published: February 6, 2023
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Gresham, Ore.’s educational materials explaining the new curbside battery recycling system to residents. | Courtesy of the city of Gresham, Ore.

Clackamas County, Ore. is the latest county in the state to adopt a different approach to battery collection and fire prevention. 
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California bill seeks to align deposit system with markets

Published: February 13, 2023
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SB 353 aims to protect recycling companies from severe market fluctuations, which have been a factor in many closures. | Susanne Pommer/Shutterstock

A newly introduced bill in the California Senate would adjust how state regulators calculate the amount of money paid to bottle and can recycling businesses, helping those companies avoid steep financial losses when scrap values plummet.
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