How Many People Recycle?

Considering how long recycling has been around, you have to wonder how many people recycle today? People throughout the world have been recycling for thousands of years. It hasn't always looked the same as it does now, with curbside pick-ups and drop off stations, but it has been done longer than many people realize. The first material to be recycled was metal. People would take broken swords and other pieces of metal they no longer needed or used and melt it down to turn in to another item (such as a new sword or goblet).

Recycling seems to be everywhere these days. Supermarkets offer reusable bags and recycling bins in their doorways. "Made from recyclable materials" is on many products. Still, goods that could be reused or recycled are tossed in the trash.

Although it is impossible to get an exact figure, it's estimated that the US recycles at a rate of 77%. That's not bad, especially when compared with just 7% in Australia. It could be better though, like Ireland, which recycles at a rate of 90%.

That 77% recycling rate in the US can be further broken down by region. The eastern part of the US leads the country at 88% with the western part coming in just behind at 86%. The Midwest recycles at a rate of 70%, while 68% of the south recycles.

Perhaps the most surprising fact about who is recycling these days is the demographic. Recycling is being marketed as a trendy, "hip" thing to do. This would lead many people to believe that this means the younger generation is more likely to recycle. On the contrary, just 70% of people aged 18 to 30 recycle, while 81% of those 62 and older recycle.

While the upward trend in recycling is encouraging, it is hopeful that eventually 100% of the population will recycle. This is the best way to secure our planet's future.