As the new year swings into high gear, we’re sharing trends to watch in the waste and recycling industry. Consumers play a vital role in whether and how materials are recycled or reused, so keeping up to date on current trends can help you learn how to recycle more and waste less.
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for Packaging
One trend that is on the rise is extended producer responsibility (EPR), or “product stewardship” legislation. EPR makes product manufacturers and distributors, instead of the general public, responsible for their products and packaging at their end of life. This encourages product design changes that minimize negative impacts on human health and the environment and allows the costs of processing and disposal to be incorporated into the product’s cost.
Over the past two years, four states – Maine, Oregon, Colorado, and California – have passed EPR laws for consumer packaging, and nearly 20 more states considered EPR legislation in 2022. Industry leaders expect more state-level EPR policies for consumer packaging to gain traction in 2023.
Banning Single-use Plastics
To curb the use of problematic single-use plastic items that are recycled at low rates and frequently end up as trash, many states and municipalities have banned single-use plastics like plastic bags, straws, and food service containers. Experts predict the popularity of single-use plastic bans will likely continue in 2023 and beyond.
You can limit your single-use plastic waste by using reusable bags, straws, water bottles, and food containers and by purchasing products with packaging that is minimal or made from highly recyclable materials like glass or metal.
Building Circular Systems for Apparel
Clothing and household textiles currently make up 6.3% of the U.S. waste stream, or the equivalent of 81 pounds per person thrown away annually, but nearly 95% of used clothing and textiles can be reused and recycled.
A growing trend on this frontier is the concept of a circular fashion industry – one that reuses and recycles all materials, eliminating waste and pollution and regenerating the environment. The potential value of fashion’s circular economy could be as much as $5 trillion, and innovative companies across the globe are rethinking their business models to change the way clothing is made and used to increase recycling and reuse and minimize waste.
In November of 2022, Massachusetts became the first state to ban textiles – including clothing, bedding, curtains, fabric, footwear, towels, and similar items – from being disposed of as trash. The state has set up a directory website to help residents search for textile recycling and donation options.
From textile recycling and donation initiatives to new business models like fashion subscription and rental services, this is definitely a trend to watch in 2023.
Reduce Your Company’s Waste: Partner with Us
Working with recycling and charitable partners across the United States and internationally, SwagCycle helps companies and organizations reduce their waste while supporting charitable causes. Learn more about how SwagCycle can help your company or organization repurpose, recycle, and donate your obsolete branded merchandise.