$371 billion. 670,000 jobs.
One American industry.
America’s plastic makers power supply chains, anchor communities, and recycle the resources that keep the U.S. economy competitive. See the data — state by state.
The Economic Contributions of U.S. Plastic Manufacturing
Plastics are essential to U.S. growth and supply chains.
Plastics Manufacturing by State
Hover Over Any State to See Local Impact
A New Era and Unified Opportunity — Manufacturing and Recycling in America
Manufacturing is having a moment. Recycling is a part of that. Strengthening one, strengthens the other.
When American companies manufacture plastics, they’re not just making materials—They’re enabling critical industries. They’re creating good-paying jobs. They’re building the backbone of our economy.
And when those same companies recover and recycle plastic to make new products — They’re driving innovation. They’re launching new businesses. They’re helping keep resources in America, to be used again and again.
Together, manufacturing and recycling:
Keep resources in the U.S. economy
Strengthen supply chains
Create and protect American jobs
Drive innovation and sustainability
By supporting both, we’re investing in American workers, American businesses, and a stronger American future.
Industry is Leading with Bold Investment
America’s Plastic Makers are leading with billions in private-sector investments in next-generation recycling and recycling innovations.
These are real solutions—helping to recover millions of tons of valuable plastics and turning it into essential products for packaging, health care, construction, and transportation.
Policymakers Can Accelerate Progress
Recycling innovations are already delivering results. But to scale its impact, we need smart, forward-thinking policy.
To fully unlock the benefits of American recycling, Congress and federal agencies should:
- Support modern recycling infrastructure
- Encourage private investment in recycling innovation
- Promote the use of recycled plastic in U.S. manufacturing
- Help American companies meet sustainability goals
- Protect American jobs and economic competitiveness
Emerging recycling technologies — namely “advanced recycling” can help us recover more plastic, reduce waste, and meet rising demand for recycled content. Many major U.S. companies have already committed to using less virgin plastic—and more recycled plastic—in their products. Now we need policies that support that shift. 
Sign this Petition to Support American Recycling
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