Product Stewardship

Paper recycling is a success. In 2023, the paper recycling rate was 65-69% and the cardboard recycling rate was 71-76%.

Paper is one of the most highly recycled materials in the U.S. The paper recycling rate was 65-69% and the cardboard recycling rate was 71-76%.

AF&PA announced 65-69% of paper available for recovery in the United States was recycled in 2023. The recycling rate for cardboard was 71-76%.

The NY State Legislature ended its session without passing the Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act. The AF&PA supports recycling improvements but seeks provisions to protect paper and paper-based packaging recycling in future discussions.

Paper bags are widely accepted for recycling across the U.S. They are the only bags that are recyclable in curbside bins. This ease of recycling makes them a convenient choice.  

AF&PA President and CEO Heidi Brock urged Minnesota Governor Walz to veto HF 3911. 

Paper cups are a sustainable choice and an important part of advancing sustainability goals. Paper cups are made from renewable resources and can be recycled at paper mills.

Minnesota lawmakers are rushing to implement the Packaging Waste and Cost Reduction Act. We support and encourage Minnesota lawmakers to complete a needs assessment before considering an EPR program. This would help them reach their goals to improve their recycling system.

Paper and cardboard continue to be some of the most recycled materials in the United States. In 2022, the paper recycling rate was 67.9% and the cardboard recycling rate was 93.6%. Paper recycling is successful because of the millions of people who recycle and the paper industry’s ongoing…

Nearly 68% of paper and more than 93% of cardboard consumed in the United States was recycled in 2022. Paper recycling rates have remained consistently high – meeting or exceeding 63% each year since 2009.