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Recycling

Does Paper Actually Get Recycled? The Industry Answers

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.

Handout - 2024 Paper and Cardboard Recycling Rates

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

Are Post-it Notes Recyclable?

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

LD 1423 Makes Commonsense Improvements to Maine’s EPR Program

AF&PA applauds Maine Governor Janet Mills and state lawmakers for advancing LD 1423, which makes much needed improvements to the state’s EPR policy. 

Industry Publishes Updated Voluntary Standard for Recycling Cardboard

AF&PA and FBA announced an update to their “Voluntary Standard For Repulping and Recycling Coated or Treated Corrugated Fiberboard and its Equivalents in the Old Corrugated Containers (OCC) Recycling Stream.” 

Voluntary Standard for Coated or Treated Corrugated

The Voluntary Standard is an industry-supported set of test protocols to evaluate the repulpability and recyclability of coated or treated corrugated board and its equivalents (OCC-e).

AF&PA Disappointed in Governor Moore’s Enactment of Maryland EPR Program

We are disappointed by Governor Wes Moore’s decision to sign SB 901 into law and create an extended producer responsibility (EPR) program in Maryland. 

New York’s EPR Policies Must Consider Cost and Facts

The New York State Legislature is considering 2 different bills that introduce an EPR program. The proposed legislation ignores the complexities of the state’s recycling system and the paper industry’s supply chain. 

Maryland’s EPR Legislation Guided by Missteps

Maryland lawmakers are hastily considering SB 901, a misguided bill that introduces an EPR program for packaging and paper products and poses significant risks to the paper industry. Lawmakers didn't consider the data or that paper recycling works. 

Handout - Why Statewide Needs Assessments Are Needed Before EPR

Before an EPR program is considered, states need to do a needs assessment. Download our handout explaining the benefits of conducting a needs assessment to understand the current state of waste and recycling systems. 

Why Statewide Needs Assessments Are Needed Before EPR

Before an EPR program is considered, states need to do a needs assessment. These studies help states better understand the current state of their waste and recycling system.

How Much Paper Was Recycled in 2023?

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%.