MSW recycling conveyor systems

In 2018, the US municipal solid waste (MSW) recycling rate was 32.1%. Paper and paperboard accounted for 67% of recycled materials, metals 13%, and glass, plastic, and wood 4-5% each.

Globally in 2021, Slovenia and Germany had the highest MSW recycling rates among OECD countries at 58.5% and 46.3% respectively.

The world generates 2.22 billion tons of MSW annually, with at least 33% not managed safely. This is expected to grow to 3.75 billion tons by 2050, more than double the population growth.

In the US, recycling rates have increased over time, from less than 15% before 1990 to significant growth until 2005. However, the growth has slowed in recent years.

Products with high U.S. recycling rates include corrugated boxes (97%), lead-acid batteries (99%), and newspapers (65%). Products with poor rates include carpet (9%), small appliances (6%), and furniture (0.3%).