American Chemistry Council Releases Report on Rigid Plastics Recycling

The American Chemistry Council (ACC), Arlington, Va., has released a status report on the collection and recycling of post-consumer non-bottle rigid plastics in the United States for 2008.

The report, prepared by Moore Recycling Associates Inc., found that in 2008, more than 361 million pounds of post-consumer rigid plastics were collected for recycling nationwide, an 11 percent increase from the previous year. The report also found that in North American markets, much of the recycled material was used to manufacture products such as pallets, crates, composite lumber and gardening items.

According to the report, the number of communities collecting mixed rigid plastics also has grown in response to demand from domestic and export buyers. 

 
In 2008, 28 of the 100 largest cities collected non-bottle rigid plastics through curbside programs, and more communities are recovering and recycling this material. Additionally, plastic scrap prices were strong during the first three quarters of 2008.

To view the report, click here.

The report is based on data supplied by 47 post-consumer plastic processors, end-users and exporters across the United States.

"This is the second year we've conducted this research and we're pleased to see a significant increase as we track recycling progress of non-bottle rigid plastics,” Russell adds.

“Plastics are too valuable to waste,” says Steve Russell, vice president of plastics for the ACC. “They should be recycled. It's encouraging to see that communities, recyclers and consumers are increasingly recognizing the value of post-consumer non-bottle rigid plastics, and working together to provide recycling opportunities.”