05/22/2026
It’s worth recognizing during that recycling is not only essential infrastructure, but also a major economic engine for the United States.
The recycled materials industry generated $184 billion in annual economic activity in 2025, contributed $8 billion in state and local tax revenue, and supported another $13 billion in federal taxes paid by the industry and its employees.
The recycled materials industry supports more than 603,000 jobs nationwide in communities across all 50 states, from major industrial regions to small rural towns.
These are stable, well-paying jobs at recycling businesses, processors, brokers, and specialized operations across the country, with compensation exceeding $100,000 annually.
Investment in recycling is investment in American jobs, manufacturing, and economic strength.https://www.recycledmaterials.org/wp-content/uploads/9908_ReMA_EarthDay_v4x.pdf
