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Identifying the Determinants of Recycling Rates in the US: A Multi-Level Analysis

Author

Listed:
  • Younsung Kim

    (Department of Environmental Science and Policy, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA)

  • Chanho B. Oh

    (School of Engineering & Applied Science, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA)

  • Sunho C. Oh

    (Department of Systems and Information Engineering, School of Engineering & Applied Science, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA)

  • Tarun Sivanandan

    (McIntire School of Commerce, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA)

  • John M. Small

    (Department of Geology, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA 23185, USA)

Abstract

As sustainability challenges become more urgent, concerns about resource depletion and the need for material recovery have brought recycling to the forefront of circular economy discussions. Compared to other developed nations, the US has underperformed in recycling, with its rate remaining relatively unchanged over the last two decades. However, limited academic research has explored the factors influencing recycling rates, and little is understood about how various elements, such as infrastructure and policy measures, affect state-level recycling. Utilizing publicly available data and multivariate regression analysis that considers demographic, infrastructural, ecological, policy, and political factors, this study investigated the state-level variations that contribute to the overall US recycling rate. The findings indicate that states with a high number of landfill sites tend to recycle less, whereas those with a high number of Superfundsites are more likely to recycle more. Furthermore, states that restrict local governments from banning plastic bags and straws are negatively associated with increased recycling. This research provides important insights into how states can improve their recycling rates, which, in turn, would enhance national recycling outcomes.

Suggested Citation

  • Younsung Kim & Chanho B. Oh & Sunho C. Oh & Tarun Sivanandan & John M. Small, 2024. "Identifying the Determinants of Recycling Rates in the US: A Multi-Level Analysis," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(23), pages 1-13, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:23:p:10701-:d:1538042
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Keanah Turner & Younsung Kim, 2024. "Problems of the US Recycling Programs: What Experienced Recycling Program Managers Tell," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(9), pages 1-14, April.
    2. Tatiana A. Homonoff, 2018. "Can Small Incentives Have Large Effects? The Impact of Taxes versus Bonuses on Disposable Bag Use," American Economic Journal: Economic Policy, American Economic Association, vol. 10(4), pages 177-210, November.
    3. Starr, Jared & Nicolson, Craig, 2015. "Patterns in trash: Factors driving municipal recycling in Massachusetts," Resources, Conservation & Recycling, Elsevier, vol. 99(C), pages 7-18.
    4. Rachel M. Krause, 2012. "An Assessment of the Impact that Participation in Local Climate Networks Has on Cities’ Implementation of Climate, Energy, and Transportation Policies," Review of Policy Research, Policy Studies Organization, vol. 29(5), pages 585-604, September.
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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