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Facts and Figures about Materials, Waste and Recycling

  • Our Latest Facts and Figures Data are Available

    All of our 2018 data are now available.

    • Check out the different Materials and Products
    • Read about the Current National Picture
  • Recycling Economic Information Report Update

    • Check out the 2020 Recycling Economic Information Report
  • Frequent Questions about the Data

    Have questions about the data?

    • Take a look at our Frequent Questions page.
  • Learn about the Facts and Figures

    Looking for basic information and links to all of our Facts and Figures web pages?

    • Check out the Guide to the Facts and Figures Report.

    NOTE:
    The facts and figures data only represent municipal solid waste in the United States. The most recent data are from 2018.

The Facts and Figures data looks at generation, recycling, composting, combustion with energy recovery, and landfilling for a variety of materials and products. Check out our A to Z Directory  for terms and keywords for which our web visitors frequently search.

Sign up to receive our "In the Loop with EPA: Circular Economy Updates" e-newsletter! 

Basic Information
 

Guide to the Facts and Figures Report about Materials, Waste and Recycling
  • What’s Included and Key Definitions
  • Frequent Questions about This Data
  • Report and Data Tables
  • State and Local Data
  • Recycling Economic Information Report

National Overview
 

National Overview: Facts and Figures on Materials, Wastes and Recycling
  • The Current National Picture
  • Generation
  • Recycling/Composting
  • Combustion with Energy
  • Landfilling 

Common Materials and Products

Guide to the Facts and Figures Report about Materials
  • Containers and Packaging
  • Electronics
  • Food
  • Construction and Demolition Debris
  • All Materials and Products

Resources for Researchers

  • Facts and Figures Analysis Methodology
  • Download Summary Data Tables and View Research Memos

This is a screenshot of part of the facts and figures infographic that says "In the United States in 2018, 292.4 million tons of trash were generated 146.1 million tons ended up in landfills"
 Learn what happens to materials thrown away in the United States in our Together, We Can Make a Difference infographic.
Contact Us to ask a question, provide feedback, or report a problem.
Last updated on May 5, 2025
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