Recycling rates for paper and cardboard in the United States experienced a decline in 2024, attributed to reduced export volumes, as reported by the American Forest & Paper Association. The 2024 paper recycling rate was recorded at 60%-64%, down from 65%-69% in the previous year, while the cardboard recycling rate dropped from 71%-76% to 69%-74% during the same period.
Approximately 46 million tons of paper were recycled in 2024, with U.S. mills utilizing 1.29 million more tons of recycled paper for new products compared to 2023. The association highlighted a significant increase in paper recycling since 1990, with a 60% rise in recycling rates over the years.
The share of recycled material in mills has been steadily rising over two decades, reaching 44.4% in 2024, indicating a positive trend in the industry. However, Terry Webber, AF&PA’s vice president of industry affairs, pointed out that the decline in exports, particularly to Asia, impacted the overall recycling rates in 2024.
Webber explained that softer demand from Asia resulted in decreased exports of recycled paper, affecting the recycling rates in the U.S. The association noted that the export of recycled paper has been on a downward trajectory in recent years. Nevertheless, there has been a long-term positive trend in the utilization of recycled paper by U.S. mills, offsetting the decline in global exports.
In response to industry concerns about recycling rate accuracy, AF&PA altered its methodology for calculating and reporting recycling rates in 2024. The shift from sole numbers to percentage ranges aimed to provide a more comprehensive and accurate assessment of the industry’s recycling performance.
Webber emphasized that the industry remains committed to enhancing recycling practices and achieving further progress. The revised methodology now includes recycled fiber imports, such as cardboard boxes and writing paper, contributing to an increased amount of paper available for recycling in the U.S.
Despite challenges posed by fluctuating export demands, the AF&PA sees paper recycling as a success story and continues to advocate for sustainable practices within the industry. The association’s efforts in recalibrating recycling rate calculations reflect a commitment to transparency and accuracy in reporting industry performance.
As the global landscape for recycled paper evolves, industry players are adapting to shifting trade dynamics and focusing on enhancing domestic recycling capabilities. The emphasis on sustainable practices and increased utilization of recycled materials underscores a broader industry trend towards environmental responsibility and resource conservation.
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