There is no national law in the United States that requires recycling. State and local governments often introduce their own recycling requirements. States are also investing heavily in recycling programs and providing funding to localities and businesses to support market development, education campaigns, improved infrastructure, and more. The commitment aims to build on efforts to address the challenges faced by the country's recycling system and create a more resilient materials economy.
The EPA has worked with state and local leaders, in combination with industry, over the past few years to promote the U.S. Recycling Commitment. In addition, 25 states have passed laws that specifically focus on the recycling of electronic waste and require the recycling of electronic products. However, the picture is different for commercial and industrial recyclers, and rates also vary greatly from state to state.
Some materials, such as paper and aluminum, are recycled at relatively high levels, while others, such as plastic, are left behind. Some bills offer grants for education on recycling and improving infrastructure, while others take a regulatory approach to single-use plastics and address disruptions in the life cycle of recyclable materials. Meanwhile, Oregon has enacted expanded producer responsibility (EPR) laws for manufacturers of plastic products and New Jersey has proposed legislation on EPR. A recycled content mandate states that the manufacturer must use a certain percentage of recycled material in their product.
Both the mandates on recycled content and the EPR laws aim to increase recycling and reduce the use of landfills. North Carolina Lead-Acid Battery Management Act It is prohibited to place or dispose of lead-acid batteries in a landfill, incinerator, or any waste-to-energy facility. Through the RCRA, the EPA develops policies that ensure the safe management of waste for disposal or recycling processes. California Rechargeable Battery Management Act instruction manuals for rechargeable consumer products containing Ni-Cd and small sealed lead acid batteries must include information on the proper recycling or disposal of the used battery.
Mississippi Lead-Acid Battery Management Act It is prohibited to dispose of a lead-acid battery used in mixed municipal solid waste. Manufacturers of Ni-Cd batteries and small sealed lead batteries must also provide a phone number so that consumers can obtain information about recycling or disposal. In addition to its environmental benefits, recycling plays a fundamental role in the supply of raw materials for the manufacture of new products and is essential for the manufacturing industry and the economy.
