Republic Service addresses misconceptions in time for America’s Recycle Day
phoenix, November 10, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — Most consumers lack understanding of good recycling practices, especially plastics, according to new research from environmental services industry leader Republic Services (NYSE: RSG). In fact, the confusion about which plastics should be recycled has led some to stop recycling altogether.
2022 Plastic Recycling Consumer Survey
With major brands setting ambitious targets for recycled content in packaging and states adopting minimum recycled content standards, the demand for high-quality recycled plastic continues to grow, but the right kind is not available. of recycled plastic is currently in short supply. November 15th is America’s Recycle Day. To mark this day, Republic Services is sharing information to help address misconceptions about plastic recycling and educate consumers about recycling best practices.
“America Recycle Day is an opportunity for everyone to brush up on proper recycling knowledge. Pete Keller, Vice President of Recycling and Sustainability. “Republic Services is committed to helping consumers understand which common plastic products can be recycled, meeting demand and moving the circular economy forward in the long term.”
The study analyzed the recycling knowledge and habits of over 2,000 US consumers.1Nearly two-thirds (64%) of respondents said they knew what types of plastic they could recycle, but 61% said flexible plastics, including grocery bags and bubble wrap, were not found in street bins. They mistakenly believe they can be recycled.
When it comes to recycling practices, water bottles, milk jugs, and laundry detergent jugs are some of the most widely accepted recyclables, but consumers don’t always recycle them. When asked about the items they consistently recycle, they said:
- 62% of consumers recycle plastic bottles
- 51% recycled milk jug
- 43% recycle laundry detergent jugs
Republic Services is committed to educating consumers on proper recycling practices so that their good intentions don’t go to waste. When recycling plastic:
- Focus on recycling hard plastics such as bottles, jugs and pails labeled #1, #2 or #5
- Do not recycle flexible plastics such as grocery bags, plastic wrappers and bubble wrap
- Do not put recycled items in bags
- Always make sure your recyclables are empty, clean and dry
- Always remember to check what your service provider accepts as recycled materials vary by location
For more information on America Recycles Day and tips and tricks to improve your recycling habits, visit RepublicServices.com/AmericaRecyclesDay.
About Republic Services
Republic Services, Inc. is a leader in the environmental services industry. Through its subsidiaries, the Company offers its customers the most complete range of products and services, including recycling, solid waste, special waste, hazardous waste, container rental and field service. Republic’s industry-leading commitment to promoting circularity, reducing emissions, and decarbonizing its business will help realize the company’s vision of partnering with customers to create a more sustainable world. is useful for For more information, visit RepublicServices.com.
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1The study is based on a Republic Services & Atomik Research survey of over 2,000 US consumers. September 21-27, 2022.
Source Republic Service Co., Ltd.
