Embracing recycling’s vital role in circularity

Recycling has an image problem. Too few people know the true environmental and economic impacts the industry has in the U.S., and many continue to question its viability.

The Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (ISRI) is among those working to improve the general public’s and U.S. legislators’ and regulators’ understanding of the industry and its benefits. ISRI Chief Lobbyist Billy Johnson testified June 30 before the House Subcommittee on Environment and Climate Change on how recycling is strengthening in the U.S. He acknowledged that residential recycling is unique in that material recovery facilities are presented with “an ever-changing mix of materials on the supply side that have high contamination and flow into the recycling stream whether there’s a market for them or not.” This reality requires “a unique approach and unique solutions,” he added.

Johnson said most recyclables originate from industrial or commercial sources and are used as sustainable substitutes for virgin materials worldwide.

“Despite the positive impact that recycling has on the economy and the environment, many scrap recyclers still prefer to maintain a low profile.”

Recycling is essential to sustainability, helping address climate change, conserving natural resources and saving energy. “Recycling employs more than 164,000 people in every congressional district in the U.S.,” he continued. “The recycling industry alone contributes over $117 billion in economic activities a year. These numbers tell the story of a vibrant industry.”

Despite the positive impact that recycling has on the economy and the environment, many scrap recyclers still prefer to maintain a low profile. That’s something Brandi Harleaux, CEO of South Post Oak Recycling Center and the subject of this month’s cover story, says should change.

Recyclers can benefit by raising awareness of the industry, she says, and by explaining how recyclables are needed to produce the cars they drive, for example.

“Being a part of political, legislative and community conversations, to me, is just a part of doing business at this point,” she says.

However, Harleaux says she understands where that reluctant mindset comes from, noting that some recycling operations have been singled out because of the genuine lack of public knowledge about the industry and its vital role.

Another ISRI committee that Harleaux belongs to is investigating how the association and its members can best convey this information to the public using language that most resonates with them.

I also encourage our readers to share their stories. You play a vital role in the circular economy and in reducing carbon emissions. Tell that story with pride.