Over 50 percent of paper products in the United States are recycled. The cost-effectiveness of paper recycling depends on local collection and recycling costs, as well as the cost savings to society from a reduced need to produce paper from trees.

Considerations

When calculating cost-effectiveness, the cost of trash collection and landfill fees should be compared with the cost of collection and separation of recyclable materials and the amount paid for the recycled paper. These costs vary by location and the quantity of materials, with larger quantities of recycled paper generally more cost-effective.

Recycled Paper Market

Recyclers pay for recycled paper, and there is solid demand for it in the U.S. and overseas.

Collection Costs

Municipalities can adjust their use of collection trucks and personnel to minimize the costs of recycling. In addition, fees for trash collection can be adjusted to cover the costs of recycling.

Future Costs

The costs of disposing of waste will most likely continue to increase as landfill and transportation costs go up, increasing the cost-effectiveness of recycling.

Societal Cost Savings

Making paper from recycled fibers instead of virgin materials uses less energy, produces significantly less air and water pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, does not destroy wildlife habitats, and reduces the space used for landfills. These cost savings are usually not quantified.

Source:

1. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Wastes - Resource Conservation - Common Wastes & Materials - Paper Recycling

2. Institute for Local Self-Reliance, The Five Most Dangerous Myths About Recycling, Sept. 1996

3. Gotham Gazette, Recycling Hangs Tough, April 2003