Top 9 Recycling Trends to Watch in 2024

As the new year begins, there’s a lot of excitement in the air. Everyone is eager for new things—fresh clothes, cool gadgets, and new plans. Both businesses and families are ready to start the year on a positive note.

However, getting new things often means getting rid of the old, which adds to our plastic waste problem. To stay eco-friendly and comply with extended producer responsibility (EPR) legislation, here are some recycling trends to watch for in 2024.

Why does recycling matter?

Recycling isn’t new. Even preschoolers learn about the three Rs: reduce, reuse, and recycle. Solid waste management is crucial because it saves valuable resources, cuts down on energy use, and reduces landfill waste.

When we recycle and repurpose materials like plastic packaging, we decrease the need for resource extraction and energy-heavy manufacturing processes, which eases the strain on the environment.

Recycling also boosts the economy by creating jobs and encourages a culture of sustainability. Both manufacturers and households can adopt greener solutions to help protect our planet.

Top 9 Recycling Trends to Watch in 2024

As we move into 2024, we’re seeing nine big trends in sustainability that are really taking off. These trends have been part of environmental efforts for a long time, but now they’re evolving and growing because of the urgent need for better eco-friendly practices.

Let’s dive into these trends that are paving the way for a more sustainable future.

1. Increased emphasis on the circular economy

The idea of a circular economy, where products and materials are made to be reused and recycled, is becoming more popular. Governments are offering incentives for businesses that support these initiatives. With new technology, this trend will keep growing, helping to reduce waste, use resources responsibly, and create a regenerative future in 2024 and beyond.

2. Advanced recycling technologies

New recycling technologies like chemical recycling and waste-to-energy solutions are set to make a big impact in reducing the environmental effects of waste disposal.

More companies are also using big data and AI to quickly and safely break down plastic and other materials. These innovations are making recycling faster and more effective.

3. Single-use plastic reduction

Many places and companies are starting to ban single-use plastics to cut down on plastic pollution. In the Philippines, most local governments are encouraging people to use eco-bags for shopping. With these governments pushing for more sustainable practices, this trend is expected to keep growing in 2024.

4. E-waste recycling

With more and more electronics being used, there’s a growing focus on recycling e-waste to recover valuable materials and lessen the environmental impact. This trend is picking up steam due to new technology for processing e-waste. It’s especially big in China and the European Union (EU), where many electronics are made. Expect to hear more about new laws and efforts to manage e-waste in the coming years.

5. Consumer engagement

People are becoming more aware of recycling and sustainability. Thanks to social media and the internet, it’s now much easier to share news and environmental campaigns with people all over the world. This has led to the rise of socially conscious consumers who seek out and support companies that care about the environment.

In 2024, we can expect a bigger focus on educating and involving consumers to encourage good recycling habits. This will be especially important in schools and communities where raising public awareness is crucial.

Also Read: 10 New Plastic Firms Boosting Sustainability in 2024

6. Localized and community-based initiatives

Communities and local governments are starting to handle their own waste more, cutting down on the need to transport recyclables over long distances.

As floods and natural disasters become more common, local governments and homeowners’ associations are realizing the importance of better waste management to help prevent these events.

7. Sustainable packaging

Companies are looking into eco-friendly packaging to reduce their environmental impact. This includes using more reusable, biodegradable, or compostable materials.

Organizations like Plastic Bank are also helping by creating recycled materials like Social Plastic®, which can be used in new products and packaging.

8. Extended producer responsibility (EPR) programs

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) has been around for decades, but only recently has it become a powerful policy tool for local and national governments in the Philippines.

EPR shifts the responsibility for recycling and waste management from consumers to producers, making companies more aware and accountable for their environmental impact. The national government supports these EPR programs with incentives, and this trend is expected to keep growing.

9. Green financing and investment

We can expect more investments in recycling and sustainable practices as environmental issues become more important to investors. With people being picky about the brands they support, investors are eager to back businesses that make a positive impact and appeal to consumers.