Breakdown of plastic containers and packaging treatment in the U.S. 2018, by method

Published by Bruna Alves, Jan 11, 2024
The most common waste management method of plastic containers and packaging in the United States is landfilling. In 2018, roughly 70 percent of the 14.53 million tons of plastic containers and packaging MSW generated in the U.S. was landfilled. In comparison, just 14 percent was recycled.

Distribution of plastic containers and packaging waste management in the United States in 2018, by method*

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Release date

January 2021

Region

United States

Survey time period

2018

Special properties

Based on a total generation of 14.53 million tons

Supplementary notes

*Excludes single-service plates and cups, and trash bags.

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