Evaluating strategies to increase PET bottle recycling in the United States
MIT researchers report U.S. PET bottle recycling rates at 24% and propose a nationwide deposit program to increase it to 82%. They emphasize demand creation and holistic recycling policies for success.
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A study by MIT researchers highlights the low recycling rates of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles in the U.S., currently at about 24%, and suggests strategies to improve this. The researchers propose a nationwide bottle deposit program, which could potentially raise recycling rates to 82%. This program would involve a 10-cent deposit per bottle, leading to a net cost of approximately one cent per bottle when demand is strong. The study emphasizes the importance of creating sufficient demand for recycled materials alongside the deposit system.
The researchers analyzed PET bottle collection and recycling rates across various states and countries, finding that existing bottle deposit programs significantly boost recycling rates. However, they noted that current collection efforts are insufficient to meet industry targets. The study also points out that while recycling PET is effective in terms of quality, the collection process remains a bottleneck.
To ensure the success of a nationwide deposit system, policies must also protect existing municipal recycling facilities from revenue loss due to reduced PET bottle collections. The researchers advocate for a holistic approach to recycling policies, considering the entire supply chain and the roles of various stakeholders. They conclude that with the right policies, significant improvements in recycling rates are achievable, particularly for materials like PET that are easier to recycle compared to mixed plastics.
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