- Recycling is mandated by law. Regulations vary from state to state. For regulations in Rhode Island see General Law Chapter 37-15 Litter Control and Recycling.
- U.S. residences, businesses and institutions produce more than 245 million tons of garbage a year—4.5 pounds of trash per person, per day!
- Recycling currently diverts 79 million tons of material away from disposal per year.
- Recycling helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions effecting global climate. Ten years ago, it was measured that recycling of solid material prevented the release of 33 million tons of carbon into the air—roughly the amount emitted annually by 25 million cars.
- The recycling industry creates jobs—9 to 1 over disposal—which adds to regional economies.
- The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976 (amended in 1984) protects human health and the environment. The RCRA also calls for conservation of energy, natural resources, reduction of waste generated and environmentally sound practices.
Data confirmed by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and Environmental News Network.