Pandemic Recycling Data Shows Big Spikes in Cardboard Boxes, Aluminum Cans, Bottles

Rhea-AI Summary

On April 15, 2021, Republic Services reported significant increases in recycling trends due to the pandemic, highlighting shifts in consumer behavior toward at-home consumption. Key figures include a 63% rise in residential cardboard recycling, 17% for aluminum, 13% for glass, and 7% for plastic bottles. Moreover, the company processed 20% more organic waste in 2020, converting it into over 500,000 tons of compost. The data underlines growing consumer awareness regarding sustainability and the importance of proper recycling methods.

Positive

• 63% increase in residential cardboard recycling.
• 17% increase in aluminum recycling.
• 13% increase in glass recycling.
• 7% increase in plastic bottle recycling.
• Processed 20% more organic waste in 2020.

Negative

• None.

PHOENIX, April 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- This Earth Day, Republic Services is releasing pandemic recycling data showing significant increases in the recycling of cardboard boxes, aluminum cans and plastic and glass bottles over the last year, reflecting a shift in consumer behavior to more at-home consumption. All of these high-demand materials can be put back into the circular economy through proper recycling methods.

Experience the interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/8683452-republic-services-earth-day-recycling/

"The pandemic's effects were clearly seen in home recycling bins," said Pete Keller, vice president of recycling and sustainability. "We know that Americans are willing to recycle and are becoming more aware of their impact on the environment, so it's vital that we continue to help consumers understand what can and cannot be recycled this Earth Day and beyond."

Since the beginning of the pandemic, online shopping has risen to new heights – and those cardboard boxes have shown up in recycling bins, with a 63% increase in residential cardboard in some markets. In addition, households have been consuming more food and beverages at home, resulting in significant increases in recycled aluminum (17%), glass (13%) and plastic bottles (7%).

Organic waste, which includes food and yard waste, also experienced a major increase, as people cooked and did yard work while at home over the last year. Republic Services processed 20% more food and yard waste in 2020 and recycled this organic material into more than half a million tons of nutrient-rich compost.

Recycling is a simple way that everyone can be more sustainable in their daily lives, and it's important to know how and what to recycle. Visit RecyclingSimplified.com for recycling tips, videos and other materials, as well as recycling curriculum for educators.

For more information about how consumers can bring Earth Day into their everyday, visit RepublicServices.com/earthday.

About Republic Services
Republic Services, Inc. is a leader in the U.S. environmental services industry. Through its subsidiaries, the Company provides superior customer experience while fostering a sustainable Blue Planet^® for future generations to enjoy a cleaner, safer and healthier world. For more information, visit RepublicServices.com, or follow us at Facebook.com/RepublicServices, @RepublicService on Twitter or Republic Services on LinkedIn.

 

View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/pandemic-recycling-data-shows-big-spikes-in-cardboard-boxes-aluminum-cans-bottles-301268513.html

SOURCE Republic Services, Inc.