Groups urge U.S. House to pass two recycling bills

More than 60 trade associations, corporations and NGOs sent a letter to congressional leaders calling for passage of two recycling bills before the end of the year. The Recycling Infrastructure Accessibility Act (RIAA) and the Recycling Composting Accountability Act (RCAA) have both progressed through the Senate.

“Increasing and improving recycling of all materials in the United States is good for the economy, the environment and our domestic supply chains,” said Charles Johnson, president and CEO of the Arlington, Va., -based Aluminum Association. “As major aluminum industry investments start to come online, it’s critical that our companies have the necessary material to support demand. From consumer packaging and automotive to infrastructure and defense applications, infinitely recyclable aluminum is strengthening our economy. We urge congress to pass both recycling bills to ensure our industry is set up for long-term success.”

The RIAA proposes a pilot program to boost recycling access in underserved and rural areas. The RCAA seeks to establish guidelines for tracking recycling and composting.

“Every year, millions of pounds, and billions of dollars-worth of valuable recyclable materials are landfilled. This includes materials designated as critical by the Department of Defense,” the letter reads. “Beyond recycling’s inherent environmental advantages, manufacturers rely on recycled material to meet demand across sectors. More recycling is good both for the planet and for the broader manufacturing economy.”

The Washington, D.C.-based Recycling Partnership said in its 2024 State of Recycling report that only 21% of recyclables are collected from households, placing the United States far behind other advanced economies in terms of recycling efficiency.

Other groups and companies that signed the letter include the Smelter Service Corporation, American Beverage Association, Recycled Materials Association, Novelis, Inc. and Constellium.