Economic impact of the recycling industry

The Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries Inc. (ISRI) advocates for safety and responsibility in the scrap recycling industry. They promote public awareness of the importance of recycling to the production of the world’s goods and environmental benefits to recycling. This study done by ISRI discusses the vital role the recycling industry has on the economy.

Here is an excerpt from ISRI's report on the impact of recycling:

“Scrap recycling is a major U.S.-based industry dedicated to transforming end-of-life products and industrial scrap into new commodity grade materials and driving economies by making the old new again. Recognized as one of the world’s first green industries, scrap recycling creates and supports jobs and has a positive impact on the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, saving energy, and protecting our natural resources” (Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries Inc, 2017).

The scrap recycling industry not only recycle and reuse scrap, but they have also been creating jobs that are environmentally friendly. In 2017, over 150,000 jobs are directly supported by recycling in the scrap industry, not including the jobs that are indirectly supported. This industry also generates substantial revenue for state and local governments, generating around $4.95 billion annually, which are used to help communities throughout the country.

Here is another excerpt from the study:

"Scrap commodities are among the nation’s largest exports by value, and overall, exports account for 25 percent of the industry’s economic activity. These exports create approximately 134,415 good green jobs in the United States and help strengthen the national economy" (Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries Inc, 2017).

"This is because scrap materials that are intended for export must be collected, separated, and prepared for transport out of the United States. The steps in this process provide well-paying U.S. jobs. In fact, were it not for these export markets, many materials, including post-consumer paper and electronics would probably not be recycled at all simply because there is not sufficient demand for them in the United States" (Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries Inc, 2017).

Many people know the environmental importance of recycling, but this study done by ISRI also shows the economic impact of recycling. How can designers create more awareness of recycling and how to get more people involved in the process?

References.

Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries Inc. (2017). Economic Impact Study U.S.-Based Scrap Recycling Industry. https://vrarecycles.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/economic-impact-2017_updatedfinal.pdf