Washington, D.C. — The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) announced its participation in the newly formed We Recycle Working Group, a cross-sector coalition dedicated to strengthening America’s recycling systems, addressing environmental challenges, and promoting investments in recycling infrastructure through education, collaboration, and data-driven policy support.
The We Recycle Working Group brings together 21 organizations across a wide range of industries, united in the belief that recycling is an essential link in America’s circular economy. Formed to educate policymakers at all levels of government, the group highlights the diverse industries engaged in recycling—from material production to mechanical and advanced recycling, recovery, and manufacturing. The coalition underscores the importance of maintaining and strengthening recycling systems within the United States, with a shared commitment to increasing recycling rates, advancing sustainable solutions, and reinforcing the essential role recycling plays in addressing environmental challenges.
In celebration of this collective effort, the We Recycle Working Group, in partnership with the Congressional Recycling Caucus, hosted a Recycling Open House on Capitol Hill attended by more than 100 attendees. The event marked the official relaunch of the Caucus and convened lawmakers, staff, and industry leaders from across the working group to emphasize the vital role recycling plays in building a circular economy and supporting economic growth. Through real-world examples of successful recycling initiatives, innovative technologies, and effective policy solutions, the event highlighted the environmental and economic benefits of a strong recycling infrastructure. Attendees also received access to the group’s newly compiled catalog of recycling facts, providing a valuable resource to inform decision-making and future investments.
“This coalition brings together a wide range of voices to elevate recycling as a national priority,” said Stephanie Strategos Polis, PLASTICS Vice President of Public Affairs. “The Plastics Industry Association is proud to help lead this charge, bringing our expertise and industry perspective to the table to advocate for smart, forward-thinking solutions that improve recycling systems, support workforce development, and advance sustainability.”
The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) supports the entire plastics supply chain, including Equipment Suppliers, Material Suppliers, Processors, and Recyclers, representing over one million workers in our $551 billion U.S. industry. PLASTICS advances the priorities of our members who are dedicated to investing in technologies that improve capabilities and advances in recycling and sustainability and providing essential products that allow for the protection and safety of our lives. Since 1937, PLASTICS has been working to make its members, and the eighth largest U.S. manufacturing industry, more globally competitive while supporting circularity through educational initiatives, industry-leading insights and events, convening opportunities and policy advocacy, including the largest plastics trade show in the Americas, NPE: The Plastics Show.
