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Problems of the US Recycling Programs: What Experienced Recycling Program Managers Tell

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  • Keanah Turner

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

  • Younsung Kim

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

Abstract

Recycling is a cornerstone of waste management. Despite its significance and growing interest, the US recycling rate has stagnated at around 35% for more than the past decade. In this study, we investigate an effective waste collection method as well as factors that may negatively affect recycling program management as a proxy measure of the recycling rate. To this end, recycling program managers and coordinators were surveyed since they play a pivotal role in the flow of recyclable materials. We found a combination of curbside and drop-off recycling to be the most cost-effective, but when managers’ experience level is factored in, the perceived significance of the combination approach decreases. Concerning barriers to recycling, we found that market variability for recycled materials, insufficient public participation in waste collection, and knowledge of best practices are critical inhibiting factors. In addition, China’s complete ban on waste import by 2030, an organizational framing effect of recycling, and a strong need for public education and outreach activities about recycling have emerged as new problems for recycling. Our findings point out recycling systems that reduce those setbacks to improve recycling performance and increase the recycling rate.

Suggested Citation

  • 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.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:9:p:3539-:d:1381520
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Xieao Chen & Ping Huang & Zhenhong Xiao, 2022. "Uncovering the verticality and temporality of environmental policy mixes: The case of agricultural residue recycling in China," Review of Policy Research, Policy Studies Organization, vol. 39(5), pages 632-653, September.
    2. Kirchherr, Julian & Reike, Denise & Hekkert, Marko, 2017. "Conceptualizing the circular economy: An analysis of 114 definitions," Resources, Conservation & Recycling, Elsevier, vol. 127(C), pages 221-232.
    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.
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