EPA Report Finds Recycling Levels Increasing

A new report released by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency claims that the recycling rate in the United States reached 32 percent last year. The figures included composting levels.

The EPA reported the information at the National Recycling Coalition’s annual Congress in Atlanta. The figures are a sharp jump from the 16 percent recycling rate reported in 1990.

The report stated that Americans generated nearly 246 million tons of municipal solid waste in 2005, a decrease of nearly 2 million tons from 2004. The decrease is due in part to the decline in individual waste generation to about 4.5 pounds per person per day, representing a 1.5 percent decrease from 2004. In addition to generating less waste, individuals recycled nearly 1.5 pounds per person per day.

Other data contained in the report show recycling trends across the board are generally up:

· Container and packaging recycling increased to 40 percent;

· Nearly 62 percent of yard waste was composted; and

· About 42 million tons of paper were recycled-a 50 percent recycling rate.

EPA has collected and reported on data going back to 1960 on the generation and disposal of waste in the United States. The information is used to measure the success of municipal solid waste reduction and recycling programs across the country. The data also shows where the nation needs to make improvements in municipal waste management.

To view an Executive Summary of the report click on the following link -- EPA Report