Commerce Should Plan to Increase Recycled Waste Exports, Calif. Lawmaker Says

The Department of Commerce should develop a strategy to expand the export market for recycled materials, Rep. Mark Takano, D-Calif., said in a letter to other lawmakers seeking their support on May 24. Takano said China’s decision to accept “less than one percent of America’s recyclable goods” -- along with more than “180 countries moving to increase regulations on waste exports” -- presents an “economic opportunity” for the U.S., if Commerce develops a plan and uses it for the country's benefit. Takano called for Commerce to “stimulate the development of markets for recycled materials and encourage the development of new uses for these materials,” as required under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act.