The Global Market of Recycled Materials That Have Been Baled- 12-04-2023
Recycling is a process that transforms waste materials into new products that can be used again. It helps to conserve natural resources, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and save energy. Recycling also creates a market for recycled materials that have been baled, which are compacted and compressed into blocks that can be easily transported and sold.
Baling is a common method of recycling various materials, such as plastic (P.E.T), paper, cardboard, aluminum, and metal. Baling reduces the volume and weight of the waste materials, making them more efficient to handle and store. Baling also improves the quality and value of the recycled materials, as they are more homogeneous and less contaminated.
The global market of recycled materials that have been baled is growing steadily, as more countries and consumers are becoming aware of the environmental and economic benefits of recycling. According to a report by Statista, the global waste recycling services market was valued at 55.1 billion U.S. dollars in 2020, and was estimated at 57.69 billion U.S. dollars in 20211. The market is expected to reach almost 90 billion U.S. dollars by 2030, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.8 percent during the forecast period 2021 to 20301.
The demand for recycled materials that have been baled is driven by various factors, such as:
The increasing generation of waste worldwide. According to the World Bank, the world generated 2.01 billion tons of municipal solid waste in 2016, and this figure is expected to grow to 3.4 billion tons by 2050.
The rising awareness of the environmental impacts of waste disposal. According to the World Economic Forum, about 400 million tons of plastic waste are produced yearly worldwide, and only 5% to 6% of it is recycled in the U.S.2. The rest ends up in landfills or oceans, where it poses threats to wildlife and human health2.
The increasing regulations and incentives for recycling. Many countries have implemented policies and programs to promote recycling, such as bans on single-use plastics, extended producer responsibility schemes, deposit return systems, and subsidies for recycling facilities.
The growing demand for green products and circular economy. More consumers and businesses are seeking products that are made from recycled or renewable materials, as they are more sustainable and cost-effective. Recycling also supports the circular economy, which aims to minimize waste and maximize resource efficiency by keeping materials in use for as long as possible3.
The global market of recycled materials that have been baled, offers many opportunities for manufacturers, recyclers, traders, and consumers. However, there are also some challenges and barriers that need to be overcome, such as:
The lack of standardization and quality control of recycled materials. Different countries and regions have different specifications and requirements for recycled materials, which can affect their compatibility and performance in manufacturing processes3. Moreover, some recycled materials may be contaminated or degraded by previous use or processing3.
The low awareness and participation of consumers and businesses. Many consumers and businesses are not aware of the benefits of recycling or how to recycle properly. Some may also lack access to convenient and affordable recycling services or facilities. Furthermore, some may have negative perceptions or preferences for recycled products over virgin products3.
To overcome these challenges and barriers, there is a need for more collaboration and innovation among all stakeholders involved in the recycling value chain. Some possible solutions include:
Educating and engaging consumers and businesses on the importance and benefits of recycling and how to recycle correctly.
Creating incentives and markets for recycled products that increase their demand and value.
Recycling is a vital strategy for achieving a more sustainable and circular economy. By using recycled materials that have been baled, we can reduce our environmental footprint, save costs.