Recycling Infrastructure and Data Accountability Act

This legislation, known as the Recycling Infrastructure and Data Accountability Act, mandates the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to undertake a comprehensive study. The primary objective of this study is to assess the feasibility of creating a standardized national database dedicated to tracking critical information related to recycling. This includes data on recyclable materials, recycling infrastructure capacity, material recovery outcomes, landfill diversion rates, geographic areas with limited access to recycling services and facilities, and the performance of extended producer responsibility (EPR) programs.

In conducting this study, the EPA must identify regions with inadequate recycling infrastructure and high reliance on landfills, and catalog existing waste and recycling facilities, detailing their capacity and materials handled. The study will also analyze challenges and economic barriers affecting the development and operation of recycling facilities, and pinpoint areas where new facilities are needed to enhance collection access or processing capacity. Within 18 months of enactment, the EPA must submit a report to Congress with its findings and recommendations. Should the EPA determine the database is feasible and recommend its establishment, the agency is then required to create and maintain this national recycling database publicly online within one year of the report's submission.