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Our guide to waste management
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Waste management plays an important role in keeping communities clean, protecting the environment, and conserving valuable resources. Yet, the US generates over 292 million tons of waste annually - more than any other country. How this waste is handled varies widely, with a complex system where federal, state, and local authorities all play a role.
Unlike in many other countries, the US lacks a national recycling or waste reduction mandate. Instead, states and cities set their own policies, leading to inconsistent recycling rates and disposal methods. Some states have ambitious waste reduction goals, while others rely heavily on landfills. Meanwhile, challenges like stagnant recycling rates, shrinking landfill space, and plastic pollution continue to grow.
In response, policymakers and businesses are exploring solutions, from Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws to waste-to-energy technologies. But will these efforts be enough to move the US toward a more circular economy?
In this guide, we’ll explore the key regulations shaping US waste management, the biggest challenges facing the system, and the strategies that could define its future.
The importance of effective waste management
“ Waste has far-reaching environmental, economic, and public health consequences. The way waste is managed determines whether valuable materials are recovered or lost, whether pollution is controlled or worsened, and whether communities thrive or face health risks. ”
Environmental impact
Improper waste disposal contributes to pollution in multiple ways. Landfills release methane, a potent greenhouse gas, while plastics break down into microplastics that contaminate soil and water. Incineration, if not properly regulated, can also produce toxic emissions. Without effective waste management, ecosystems suffer, wildlife is harmed, and natural resources are depleted.
Resource conservation
Many materials commonly discarded, such as metals, paper, and certain plastics, can be reused or recycled. Yet, the US still sends over 50% of its municipal solid waste to landfills. Recycling and reuse not only reduce waste but also lessen the demand for raw materials, lowering energy use and environmental impact. For example, recycling aluminum saves up to 95% of the energy required to produce new aluminum.
Economic benefits
The US waste industry is a multi-billion-dollar sector, creating jobs in recycling, waste processing, and resource recovery. Cities and businesses that adopt waste reduction strategies often see cost savings, as landfill disposal fees continue to rise. Investing in circular economy solutions - where products are designed for reuse - can also drive innovation and economic resilience.
Public health and community well-being
Poorly managed waste can have serious health consequences. Contaminated water sources, air pollution from burning waste, and exposure to hazardous materials can all impact public health. Illegal dumping and overflowing landfills also lower the quality of life in affected communities. Ensuring safe, sustainable waste management protects both people and the planet.
Meeting policy and sustainability targets
While there is no national waste reduction target in the US, many states and cities are setting their own ambitious goals. California, for instance, aims to divert 75% of waste from landfills, while other states are implementing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs to shift the cost of waste management onto manufacturers. Federal investment in recycling infrastructure is also increasing, signaling a shift toward stronger waste policies.
As the US grapples with these challenges, waste management is becoming a key sustainability issue. Reducing waste, increasing recycling, and improving disposal methods are all essential to building a cleaner, more efficient system.
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The regulatory framework governing waste management in the US
Waste management in the US is governed by a combination of federal laws, state regulations, and local policies. While the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets national standards, most waste management decisions - such as landfill regulations, recycling programs, and disposal methods - are handled at the state and municipal levels. This decentralized system leads to significant variation in waste policies across the country.
Key federal laws shaping waste management
Although waste management is primarily a state and local responsibility, several federal laws set minimum standards for waste disposal, hazardous waste handling, and pollution prevention:
| Regulation | Key Focus |
|---|---|
| Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) (1976) | Regulates hazardous and non-hazardous waste; establishes a cradle-to-grave system |
| Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) (1980) | Cleans up contaminated sites; enforces ‘polluter pays’ principle; funds remediation |
| Pollution Prevention Act (PPA) (1990) | Encourages waste reduction at source; promotes cleaner production and material reuse |
| Save Our Seas Act (2018) & Save Our Seas 2.0 (2020) | Addresses marine plastic pollution; funds recycling and ocean cleanup efforts |
| Landfill Methane Regulations (NSPS & EG under the Clean Air Act) | Regulates landfill methane emissions; mandates gas collection and control systems |
- Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) (1976) – The primary US waste law, RCRA regulates hazardous and non-hazardous solid waste, establishing a cradle-to-grave tracking system for hazardous materials. It also sets federal landfill standards, ensuring proper design, operation, and closure to prevent contamination. The law is administered by the EPA and state agencies.
- Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) (1980) – Known as the Superfund law, CERCLA authorizes the EPA to clean up contaminated sites and hold polluters financially responsible under the “polluter pays” principle. It also established the Superfund program, which funds remediation efforts for abandoned toxic waste sites when responsible parties cannot be identified or cannot afford cleanup.
- Pollution Prevention Act (1990) – PPA focuses on waste reduction at the source, encouraging industries to adopt cleaner production methods rather than relying on treatment or disposal. It promotes toxic use reduction, energy efficiency, and material reuse to minimize environmental impact.
- Save Our Seas Act (2018) & Save Our Seas 2.0 (2020) – These laws address marine plastic pollution by increasing federal investment in recycling infrastructure, global waste reduction efforts, and research into sustainable materials. They also strengthen NOAA’s Marine Debris Program, which funds ocean cleanup and pollution prevention projects.
- Landfill Methane Regulations (NSPS & EG under the Clean Air Act): The EPA regulates landfill methane emissions under the Clean Air Act, specifically through the New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) for new landfills and Emission Guidelines (EG) for existing landfills. These rules require large landfills to install gas collection and control systems to capture methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Enforcement has varied.
State and local waste policies
Because the US lacks a national recycling mandate or waste reduction target, states and cities set their own waste management rules. Some states have ambitious recycling and landfill diversion goals, while others have minimal regulations, relying heavily on landfilling.
- Progressive states like California, Oregon, and Washington have strict recycling mandates, bans on single-use plastics, and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs that require manufacturers to cover the costs of recycling packaging waste.
- More landfill-dependent states in the South and Midwest have low recycling rates, fewer waste reduction policies, and cheaper landfill fees that discourage recycling investment.
- Deposit Return Schemes (Bottle Bills) exist in only 10 states, despite their effectiveness in increasing beverage container recycling.
State vs. federal authority
Unlike the UK’s nationalized waste strategy, the US relies on a state-by-state approach, leading to gaps and inconsistencies:
- Some states have strict waste laws (eg. California requires composting, bans certain plastics, and aims for 75% waste diversion).
- Other states have minimal waste policies, with no recycling requirements and heavy reliance on landfills.
- The federal government provides guidance, but without national mandates, progress depends on state-level leadership.
As waste management challenges grow, the debate continues over whether the US should adopt national recycling laws and stronger federal regulations, or whether the current state-driven system remains the best approach.
What Trump’s second term could mean for US waste policies
“ With Donald Trump back in office, his second term is likely to echo his first - less federal oversight, fewer regulations, and a preference for voluntary corporate action over government intervention. Waste management policies could shift away from climate-focused initiatives and toward cost-cutting measures that prioritize business interests. ”
Likely policy changes:
- Weakened landfill methane rules – Trump previously delayed enforcement of methane regulations. Another rollback would reduce pressure on landfill operators to capture emissions.
- Cuts to recycling investment – The Biden administration funded $275 million for waste infrastructure. Trump’s first term lacked federal recycling initiatives, and new funding is unlikely.
- No federal plastic reduction efforts – Biden’s National Strategy to Prevent Plastic Pollution may be abandoned, leaving states to regulate plastics independently. Trump has already signed an order reversing government efforts to replace plastic straws with paper ones.
- More reliance on voluntary corporate action – Trump’s “America Recycles” initiative avoided mandates. His second term would likely follow the same hands-off approach.
- EPA enforcement rollbacks – Budget cuts could weaken hazardous waste oversight, shifting responsibility to state agencies and widening regulatory disparities.
- Continued focus on Superfund cleanups – One of the few environmental areas Trump previously supported, toxic waste site remediation is likely to remain a priority.
What this means for US waste management
Without federal leadership, state-by-state waste policies will become even more fragmented. Progressive states will push ahead with plastic bans, EPR laws, and landfill diversion, while others may ease regulations to lower business costs. Recycling rates could stagnate, landfill reliance may increase, and circular economy initiatives may lose momentum.
Ultimately, waste policy under Trump will likely favor business flexibility over environmental mandates, leaving waste reduction efforts largely in the hands of states, corporations, and market demand.
Key US waste strategies and initiatives
The US waste management system is evolving as policymakers, businesses, and environmental organizations push for more effective waste reduction strategies. While the country lacks a national waste reduction mandate, several key initiatives are shaping how waste is managed at the federal, state, and corporate levels.
1. The National Recycling Goal (50% by 2030)
In 2021, the EPA set a national goal to increase the US recycling rate to 50% by 2030. While this target is not legally binding, it serves as a federal benchmark to guide state and local waste policies. Key efforts to reach this goal include:
- Infrastructure investment – The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (2021) allocated $275 million to modernize recycling facilities and improve collection systems.
- Public education programs – New initiatives aim to reduce contamination in recycling bins, one of the biggest challenges in the US recycling system.
- Standardizing recycling labels – The EPA and state agencies are working to clarify what can and cannot be recycled to reduce confusion.
Despite these efforts, recycling rates remain stagnant, hovering around 32% nationally. Without stronger federal mandates or state-led regulations, achieving the 50% goal remains uncertain.
2. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws
EPR laws shift the cost of waste management from taxpayers to product manufacturers by requiring companies to fund the recycling and disposal of their products.
- California, Maine, Oregon, Minnesota, and Colorado have passed EPR laws for packaging waste, making producers responsible for the collection, sorting, and recycling of materials like plastic, glass, and paper.
- Other states, including New York, Washington, and Maryland, are considering similar laws.
- Industry groups are beginning to support federal EPR legislation, seeing it as a way to streamline regulations rather than facing a patchwork of state laws.
If EPR laws expand, they could significantly reduce packaging waste and increase recycling rates nationwide.
3. Deposit Return Schemes (Bottle Bills)
Bottle deposit programs have been one of the most successful waste reduction policies in the US, but they are only in place in 10 states. These programs:
- Charge consumers a small deposit (typically 5-10 cents) on beverage containers, refundable when the container is returned.
- Achieve recycling rates of around 63% in participating states, compared to 24% in states without a deposit system.
- Reduce plastic bottle litter by over 70% in some areas.
There is growing interest in expanding bottle bills, but opposition from beverage and retail industries has slowed progress.
4. Plastic waste policies
With plastic pollution reaching crisis levels, many US states have taken steps to ban or restrict single-use plastics:
- Plastic bag bans – 12 states have banned plastic grocery bags and over 28 states have enacted plastic bag legislation.
- Polystyrene foam bans – States like New York, Maine, and Washington prohibit foam food containers due to their low recyclability.
At the federal level, the National Strategy to Prevent Plastic Pollution (2024) aims to reduce single-use plastics, increase the use of recycled content in packaging, and support waste reduction technologies. However, without a federal plastic ban, state-led initiatives remain the driving force behind plastic waste reduction.
5. Federal investment in recycling and waste infrastructure
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (2021) was a major turning point for federal investment in waste management. Key funding programs include:
- Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling (SWIFR) grants – Provides funding to modernize recycling infrastructure, particularly in communities with poor waste collection services.
- Recycling Education and Outreach Grants – Aims to improve public understanding of recycling rules to reduce contamination.
- Support for composting programs – Encourages states to expand organic waste diversion to reduce food waste in landfills.
This funding marks one of the largest federal investments in waste management in US history, though experts argue that sustained investment is needed to build a truly circular economy.
6. Circular economy initiatives
The concept of a circular economy - where waste is minimized by keeping materials in use for as long as possible - is gaining momentum in the US:
- Corporate commitments – Major companies like Coca-Cola, Unilever, and Walmart are pledging to use 100% recyclable packaging and increase recycled content in their products.
- Recycling market development – Government and private sector investments are focused on improving the domestic recycling industry, especially for plastics and electronic waste.
- Material innovation – Companies are developing biodegradable and reusable packaging solutions to reduce reliance on single-use plastics.
While the US lags behind Europe and Canada in circular economy policies, these corporate and government-led initiatives signal a shift toward reducing waste at the source rather than just improving disposal methods.
The impact of these initiatives
While these strategies are helping reshape the US waste system, challenges remain:
- Recycling rates are still low – Progress has been slow despite federal and state investments.
- Landfills remain dominant – The US continues to send more than 50% of its waste to landfill.
- State policies are inconsistent – Some states are pushing for waste reduction, while others resist regulation.
However, with EPR laws expanding, plastic bans increasing, and new federal investment, the next decade could mark a turning point in how the US manages waste. The question remains: Will these initiatives be enough to create a truly circular waste system, or will landfill reliance continue to dominate?
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Current waste management practices in the US
Waste management in the US varies significantly by region, reflecting differences in state policies, infrastructure, and economic factors. While some areas have advanced waste diversion programs, others rely heavily on landfills. The lack of a unified national strategy has resulted in inconsistent recycling rates, limited composting access, and varying landfill regulations.
Household waste
Residential waste collection is managed at the municipal or county level, leading to major differences in recycling access and requirements:
- Curbside collection – Most urban and suburban areas provide trash, recycling, and sometimes composting services. However, rural communities often lack access to comprehensive waste programs.
- Single-stream vs. multi-stream recycling – Some cities use single-stream recycling, where all materials go in one bin, while others require a separate collection of glass, plastics, and paper. This affects contamination rates and processing efficiency.
- Recycling participation gaps – Some states and cities mandate recycling (eg. California, New York), while others leave it voluntary, contributing to low recycling rates in less regulated areas.
Commercial and industrial waste
Companies and industrial facilities generate a significant portion of US waste, and their waste management choices are often dictated by cost rather than sustainability goals:
- Office and retail waste – Many businesses participate in voluntary recycling programs, but only a handful of states require commercial recycling.
- Food waste in the hospitality industry – Some cities (like San Francisco and Seattle) have composting mandates for restaurants and grocery stores, but most of the country lacks similar requirements.
- Construction and demolition waste – The US produces over 600 million tons of construction debris annually, accounting for 25% of the country’s waste stream, yet recycling requirements for materials like wood, concrete, and metal vary widely by state.
Hazardous waste
Hazardous waste - including chemicals, medical waste, and e-waste - is regulated under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). However:
- State regulations vary – Some states have stricter hazardous waste rules than federal requirements, while others take a more relaxed approach.
- E-waste disposal challenges – Only 25 US states have laws requiring electronics recycling, leading to millions of discarded devices ending up in landfills each year.
- Illegal hazardous waste dumping – Underfunded enforcement agencies struggle to crack down on waste crime, particularly in industries looking to cut disposal costs.
Landfill dependence
Despite efforts to divert waste, landfilling remains the most common disposal method in the US:
- Over 50% of municipal solid waste still ends up in landfills.
- Landfill tipping fees vary widely - some states have low costs, making landfill disposal the cheapest option, while others impose higher fees to encourage recycling.
- Methane emissions remain a major concern, especially if landfill gas capture systems are not in place.
Recycling challenges
While recycling is widely promoted, participation and efficiency remain low:
- Contamination rates are high – Many materials placed in recycling bins cannot actually be processed, increasing costs and reducing effectiveness.
- China’s waste import ban (2018) exposed weaknesses in the US system, forcing cities to scale back recycling programs or send materials to landfills.
- Plastic recycling rates remain dismal – Only 5–6% of plastic waste is recycled, while the rest is landfilled, incinerated, or pollutes the environment.
Composting
Food waste makes up 30% to 40% of the US food supply, yet composting infrastructure remains underdeveloped:
- Few cities have mandatory composting – San Francisco and Seattle lead the way, but most municipalities lack programs.
- Lack of curbside composting access – Only a small percentage of Americans have access to food waste collection services.
- Landfill bans on organic waste – Some states (like Vermont and California) have passed laws requiring food waste diversion, but adoption remains slow nationwide.
“ The decentralized nature of US waste management creates gaps and inefficiencies in how materials are collected, processed, and disposed of. Without stronger national policies or more state-led initiatives, the country will struggle to increase recycling rates, reduce landfill dependence, and transition to a circular economy. ”
Challenges in waste management
Despite growing awareness of sustainability and recycling, the US waste management system faces significant obstacles. A combination of inconsistent policies, economic barriers, and outdated infrastructure continues to hinder progress toward a more sustainable waste system.
Stagnant recycling rates
The US recycling rate has remained stuck around 32% for years, far below the EPA’s 50% by 2030 target. Contributing factors include:
- Lack of federal recycling mandates – Unlike the EU, the US does not have national recycling requirements, leaving policy decisions to individual states.
- Consumer confusion – Inconsistent rules across cities and states lead to high contamination rates, making recycling less effective.
- Limited domestic recycling infrastructure – The closure of foreign markets like China has left many municipalities without viable recycling solutions.
Landfill dependency and shrinking capacity
Landfills remain the primary waste disposal method in the US, but many are reaching capacity, especially in densely populated areas.
- Over 50% of municipal waste still goes to landfills, despite efforts to promote waste diversion.
- Landfill methane emissions contribute to climate change, yet regulatory enforcement has been inconsistent.
- Low landfill tipping fees in some states discourage recycling, making it cheaper for businesses to discard materials rather than recover them.
Waste crime and illegal dumping
Weak enforcement and high disposal costs in certain states have led to a rise in illegal dumping and waste crime:
- Hazardous waste violations – Some companies dispose of industrial waste improperly to cut costs.
- Fly-tipping – Illegal dumping of construction and household waste has increased in areas with strict landfill regulations.
- Electronic waste exports – Without strong federal e-waste laws, discarded electronics are often shipped overseas, where they may be dumped or improperly processed.
Economic barriers to sustainable waste solutions
Financial constraints prevent many cities and businesses from investing in sustainable waste management practices:
- High costs of recycling – Processing recyclable materials is often more expensive than landfill disposal, particularly for plastics.
- Lack of financial incentives – Many states do not offer tax breaks or subsidies to encourage recycling or circular economy initiatives.
- Limited funding for composting infrastructure – While food waste is a major component of US landfill waste, composting programs remain underdeveloped due to insufficient state and federal funding.
Federal vs. state inconsistencies
The patchwork approach to waste regulation leads to inefficiencies and uneven progress:
- Some states aggressively pursue waste reduction (eg. California, New York), while others have minimal policies.
- Lack of uniformity in recycling rules means that what’s recyclable in one state may be landfilled in another.
- Federal policies on waste and emissions fluctuate with different administrations, leading to uncertainty for businesses and municipalities.
Can the US overcome these challenges?
Without a stronger national approach, waste management will continue to be highly fragmented, with progressive states leading on waste reduction and circular economy policies, while others maintain landfill dependency. Businesses and consumers increasingly demand sustainable waste solutions, but whether federal and state policies will keep up with this shift remains uncertain.
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How Greenly can help your company
Effective waste management is just one piece of the sustainability puzzle. To achieve long-term environmental goals, businesses need a comprehensive approach to carbon management, ensuring that their operations align with the UK’s sustainability targets and regulations.
At Greenly, we help companies measure, track, and reduce their carbon footprint - supporting businesses in their journey towards greater sustainability.
Our carbon management solutions
- Comprehensive carbon tracking – Our platform enables businesses to monitor their Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions, identifying key areas for reduction.
- Lifecycle assessments (LCA) – We provide detailed insights into the environmental impact of products and services, helping businesses adopt eco-design principles and reduce waste.
- Sustainable supply chain strategies – Our data-driven approach helps companies select more sustainable suppliers and optimize waste management practices throughout their value chain.
- Regulatory compliance support – With tightening UK waste and carbon regulations, Greenly ensures that your company stays ahead of compliance requirements.
By integrating carbon management into your business strategy, you can not only reduce emissions but also cut costs, improve brand reputation, and meet increasing consumer and investor expectations for sustainability.
Would you like to learn more about how Greenly can support your company’s sustainability goals? Get in touch with us today.
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