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Plastic justice gap exposed as US recycling access favors wealthier communities, study finds

  • A recent study has found that wealthier, more educated US communities recycle more packaging due to better access to nearby recycling infrastructure.
  • Plastic waste generation is similar across regions, yet plastic recycling rates differ due to unequal infrastructure distribution, according to researchers.
  • Policies in the US, like Bottle Bills, can double recycling rates, highlighting the need for expanded regulatory measures.

A study from the University at Buffalo (UB), US, found that communities with higher income levels and higher education attainment are more likely to recycle items such as soda bottles, takeout containers, and other plastic packaging. 

John Atkinson, associate professor in the UB Department of Civil, Structural, and Environmental Engineering, tells Packaging Insights: “Our work shows that there are many underserved areas that should be elevated in priority for recycling infrastructure.”

Plastic justice gap exposed as US recycling access favors wealthier communities, study finds

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