The municipal waste generated in the US is forecasted to increase consistently from 818.93 kilograms per capita in 2024 to 834.89 kilograms per capita in 2028. Between 2024 and 2025, the waste volume is expected to grow by 0.50%. The subsequent years show similar year-on-year growth: 0.49% from 2025 to 2026, 0.48% from 2026 to 2027, and 0.47% from 2027 to 2028, reflecting a gradual but steady increase. As of 2023, the actual volume stood slightly below these forecasts.
A summary of trends over the last two years reveals a steady escalation in waste generation, aligning with a similar pattern observed in the forecast for the next five years. On average, the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over this period is approximately 0.48%. This indicates a slow yet constant rise in the amount of municipal waste generated per capita.
Future trends to watch for include potential policy changes regarding waste management and recycling, technological advancements in waste processing, and shifts in consumer behavior towards more sustainable practices. Exploring these areas could either mitigate or amplify the growth trajectory of municipal waste generation in the coming years.
