Today, on America Recycles Day, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is showcasing advancements made under its "National Recycling Strategy" through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. As part of the Biden-Harris administration's efforts to promote a circular economy, EPA joins the White House in recognizing this day with a Presidential Proclamation. Since 1997, EPA has celebrated recycling progress and encourages continued efforts to reduce, reuse, and recycle.
EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan stated, "President Biden’s commitment to upgrading our nation’s recycling infrastructure has supported local economies, created good-paying American jobs, and provided stronger public health protections for communities across our nation." He added that recycling remains an effective way to make a difference.
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law signed three years ago brought significant investment into recycling via the Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling (SWIFR) and Recycling Education and Outreach (REO) grant programs. These grants address consumer confusion and outdated infrastructure while supporting EPA's strategy. So far, 164 grants have been selected by EPA—156 already awarded—to states, territories, communities, Tribes, and Intertribal Consortia.
Efforts focus on reducing waste as natural resource extraction contributes significantly to global greenhouse gas emissions. In June 2024, EPA released a joint strategy with other agencies aimed at reducing food loss and waste while increasing organic material recycling.
EPA also hosted sessions to develop best practices for battery labeling to boost battery recycling efforts. This initiative aims at increasing collection rates of various types of batteries.
In September 2024, additional SWIFR funding opportunities were announced for Tribes and intertribal consortia alongside REO program funding. The Justice40 Initiative ensures these grants benefit disadvantaged communities by delivering at least 40% of overall benefits from federal investments.
Looking ahead, EPA plans to publish the final "National Strategy to Prevent Plastic Pollution," detailing actions for various sectors in eliminating plastic waste release into the environment.
The agency offers numerous online resources such as a Model Recycling Toolkit and Composting Food Scraps toolkit among others available on their website for those interested in learning more about sustainable practices.
