Paper

In 2024, nearly half of recycled paper went into making containerboard — the material used to make cardboard boxes.

In 2024, the paper recycling rate was 60% - 64%. 

Paper recycling is a success. In 2024, the paper recycling rate was 60-64% and the cardboard recycling rate was 69-74%.

We explain Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Programs, the role of the paper industry in EPR, our industry's investment to improve paper recycling and our recommendations for EPR programs. 

Yes, paper gets recycled! Today, more than 2/3 of all paper recycled in the U.S. is turned into new products Americans rely on at mills nationwide.

Download AF&PA's handout explaining the 2024 paper and cardboard recycling rates.

Yes, post-it notes are recyclable by paper mills! It’s best to attach them to printer paper, mail, magazines, or other larger paper items and place them in your recycling bin

According to the report, total printing-writing (P-W) paper shipments decreased 6% in June compared to June 2024.

The cost of a First-Class Mail Forever stamp is set to rise by 5 cents. If approved by the Postal Regulatory Commission, new rates will take effect July 13, 2025.

According to the report, total printing-writing paper shipments decreased 5% in May compared to May 2024.

According to the report, total printing-writing paper shipments decreased 7.6% in April compared to April 2024. 

The 65th Paper Industry Annual Capacity and Fiber Consumption Survey was released by AF&PA. The report provides detailed data on U.S. paper industry capacity and production compiled by the AF&PA statistics team.