The municipal waste recycling rate in the US stood at 36% in 2023, showing a consistent increase from 34.3% in 2013. From 2013 to 2023, the year-on-year variations typically ranged between -0.58% to 0.87%, reflecting a stable upward trend. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over the past decade fluctuated but remained positive, indicating steady improvement in waste management efforts. The past five years (2019-2023) saw an average annual increase around 0.39%, excluding the negative start in 2013.
Looking forward, the forecasted data from 2024 to 2028 suggest a continued gradual increase in recycling rates, with an expected CAGR of 0.33% and an overall five-year growth rate around 1.66%. The municipal waste recycling rate is anticipated to reach 36.7% by 2028.
Future trends to watch for include technological advancements in recycling processes, increased public awareness and participation, and potential regulatory measures to enhance waste management systems. These factors could drive more significant improvements in the recycling rate, aligning with sustainability goals.