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How do recycling practices in the US compare to those in other countries?

Yandel Wilkie

Recycling practices in the US are comparable to those in other developed countries, but it's still important to note that there are significant differences.

Firstly, the US has a relatively high recycling rate when compared to other countries. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, roughly 35% of all municipal solid waste (MSW) in the US was recycled in 2017. This places the US in a good position globally, with countries such as Canada and the Netherlands following closely behind with recycling rates above 30%. However, it's important to emphasize that there are still several developed countries with much higher rates of recycling, such as Germany and Austria, which both have a recycling rate of over 60%.

Another unique characteristic of recycling in the US is its decentralized approach. Unlike some countries with centralized collection and sorting systems, the US has a more dispersed model where recycling is managed at the local level. This means that the recycling process can vary between different cities and can sometimes be confusing for residents who are unsure what materials are accepted in their local recycling programs.

One aspect that distinguishes the US from many other countries is the lack of a national recycling policy. While some countries have national recycling policies and goals, the US does not. Instead, recycling is generally governed under state and local laws, with each jurisdiction responsible for establishing their own targets and policies.

Interestingly, despite the lack of national policy, several American companies have set voluntary commitments to increase the recyclability of their products or reduce waste. For example, Coca Cola has set a goal to collect and recycle one bottle or can for every one sold by 2030, while Walmart has pledged to decrease waste 50% by 2025.

Furthermore, the US recycling industry has had some challenges over recent years with changes in China’s policies regarding imports of foreign waste. In 2018, China, which had been one of the largest importers of recyclables globally, announced a stricter policy that banned the import of 24 different types of waste, resulting in a global recycling crisis. This had a significant impact on the US’s recycling industry, pushing it to seek out new markets for its recyclables or encourage domestic recycling options.

Lastly, some environmental organizations suggest that the US has a 'throwaway culture'. Disposable products such as single-use cups, straws, and cutlery are pervasive in American society, which creates a culture of convenience rather than sustainability. Although the production of single-use items is unsustainable, some Americans continue to purchase these products because they are cheap and convenient.

To wrap up, recycling practices in the US are comparable to those in other developed countries, with a relatively high recycling rate compared to many other countries. However, the lack of a national recycling policy and the recycling crisis that occurred in 2018 makes progress more challenging. Still, American companies and individuals have the potential to make significant changes in enhancing the US’s recycling practices by setting pledges, changing policies, and fostering a culture of sustainability.