Most recent data from the EPA  indicates that paper and paperboard packaging accounts for 3/4 of all packaging materials recovered for recycling in the U.S.

In 2021, nearly half of recycled paper went into making containerboard - the material used to make cardboard boxes.

In 2021, 91.4% of cardboard boxes were recycled. Keep up the good work by breaking boxes down flat, keeping them dry and clean, and then put them in the bin. 

In 2021, we recovered more than 50 million tons of paper for recycling and the paper recycling rate was 68%.  That's a rate on par with the highest rate previously achieved.

68% of paper was recycled in 2021. A rate on par with the highest rate previously achieved.

91.4% of all cardboard boxes were recycled in 2021. The recycling rate for cardboard has exceeded 82% since 2009. 

Paper recycling is a success story. In 2021, 68% of paper was recycled and 91.4% of cardboard boxes were recycled.

AF&PA announced 68% of all paper consumed in the United States was recycled in 2021 – a rate on par with the highest rate previously achieved. Additionally, the recycling rate for old corrugated containers (OCC) – commonly known as cardboard – increased. 

The numbers are in! Paper is one of the most recycled materials. This is confirmed by our continuously high recycling rates. In 2021, the paper recycling rate climbed to 68%. And the recycling rate for cardboard boxes was 91.4%.   

After your local recycling hauler picks up your recycling, it’s taken to a materials recovery facility (MRF) where it’s sorted into like things. Workers remove items that shouldn’t be there, also called contaminants. That includes things like plastic bags, holiday lights, diapers and even…

AF&PA Vice President of Industry Affairs Terry Webber issued a statement in response to the Colorado General Assembly passing (HB22-1355), which would create an extended producer responsibility (EPR) program.

For over a decade, the paper industry has achieved a consistently high recycling rate, meeting or exceeding 63% each year since 2009. Our industry’s success in paper recycling is because our systems are voluntary and market-driven. And because of the industry’s investments and the support of the…