Recycling in America: A Decade in Review—Progress or Just a Band-Aid?

Over the last decade, recycling in the United States has made progress, but how far has it really taken us? Everywhere we look, there’s big talk about recycling. Major companies highlight their recycling practices, whether it’s the use of recycled paper for fast-food cups and napkins or toys made from recycled plastics. Conscious choices seem to be in play to make America—and the world—a cleaner place to live. The narrative concerning the environment has remained consistent for years: it’s all about being clean and green. But how far are we taking it?

Are we making a difference in America? Are we recycling enough to offset landfill volume? Are we doing anything beyond turning in our cardboard, plastics, glass, and aluminum to reduce the waste sent to landfills? As landfills continue to grow, it’s worth examining whether recycling has truly lightened the waste burden—or if more needs to be done.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. diverted over 94 million tons of waste from landfills and incinerators in 2018 alone, thanks to recycling and composting efforts. This accounted for a recycling rate of 32.1%, which has improved over the years. Yet, nearly 50% of our waste still ends up in landfills—a stark reminder that there’s significant room for growth.

Are we making a difference in America?

Systemic issues have impeded recycling's full potential. Contaminated recycling streams, outdated processing facilities, and inconsistent public participation are major hurdles. The 2018 recycling market crisis, triggered by China’s ban on importing certain recyclables, further exposed weaknesses in the system, forcing municipalities to reevaluate their strategies.

Landfills remain a critical problem. They received around 146.2 million tons of municipal solid waste in 2018, according to the EPA. Despite recycling’s efforts to reduce landfill dependency, the continued growth of waste challenges our sustainability goals.

Landfills received around 146.2 million tons of municipal solid waste in 2018, according to the EPA.

On a local level, there are many solutions. Recycling centers and donation centers are excellent places to start. Reusing or repurposing items can make them useful again while keeping them out of the dump. Another way to stay involved is by learning what your junk removal company does with the items they haul away. Anderson Hauling & Junk Removal is doing its part to make a difference. As a licensed and insured junk removal service, we prioritize eco-friendly practices to keep as much waste out of landfills as possible. By offering responsible disposal services and promoting recycling, we’re helping northeast Missouri take steps toward a sustainable future. While we do take trash to the landfill when necessary, we strive to donate, recycle, reuse, and repurpose as much as we can.

Local donation centers and recycle centers are great places to start getting involved.

So, what’s next for recycling in America? While recycling has played a vital role in conserving resources and reducing landfill growth, it’s clear that more action is needed. Increased investment in recycling infrastructure, greater public education, and a focus on reducing waste at the source are key strategies for the future.

At Anderson Hauling & Junk Removal, we’re committed to helping homes and businesses in Hannibal and across northeast Missouri manage waste responsibly. Contact us today for eco-friendly junk hauling services, and let’s work together to protect the environment for generations to come.