The California Carpet Stewardship Program has surpassed its annual carpet recycling goal for the second year in a row, according to The Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI). The new data released by the Carpet America Recovery Effort (CARE) shows the program achieved a 35.1 percent recycling rate in 2023, surpassing its target goal of 31 percent. This achievement is attributed to collaborative efforts between the carpet industry and CalRecycle.
"As significant contributors to carpet recycling in California, The CRI and our members are encouraged by the ongoing accomplishments of the California Carpet Stewardship Program. The continued growth is a clear indication of the valuable collaboration among carpet manufacturers, retailers, installers and consumers to promote the responsible disposal and recycling of carpet," said Russ DeLozier, president of CRI. "The CRI, representing carpet manufacturing industry nationwide, remains engaged with CARE and the recycling industry to fulfill California's legislative and environmental objectives in carpet recycling and continue to exceed the goals of the Program. We also are committed to advocating for market-based solutions for post-consumer recycling, which support our environment, industry, and consumers."
The 2023 program successes and milestones include:
- Exceeded recycling rate target at 35.1 percent versus a goal of 31 percent for the year.
- Met 12 of 13 goals and hit 95 percent of the 13th goal – recycling efficiency.
- 75 percent of total subsidies paid in state to California-based recyclers.
- 79 percent of all recycled pounds were generated in California.
- Cumulative gross collections in California now exceed 1.3 billion pounds (or 650,000 tons).
- Over $154,000,000 in total subsidies have been paid to recyclers.
The accomplishments of the Carpet Stewardship Program result from expanding awareness among all stakeholders to increase knowledge of drop-off sites, ultimately enhancing accessibility for California residents and encouraging proper disposal practices. The increase in carpet recycling rates not only reduces landfill waste but also supports the circular economy, where resources are reused and recycled.
