National America Recycles Day is a nationally recognized observance dedicated to promoting recycling and encouraging Americans to commit to recycling more and buying recycled products.
Quick Facts
When is it: November 15 annually
Tagged as: National Recycling Day, ARD
What’s the hashtag: #AmericaRecyclesDay
When was it founded: 1997
Who founded it: National Recycling Coalition (NRC)
History of America Recycles Day
The initiative began as Texas Recycles Day in 1994, created by Kevin Tuerff and Valerie Davis while working at the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. After leaving their state positions, they proposed transforming it into a national event. The first national celebration occurred in 1997, with Vice President Al Gore serving as honorary chair.
Timeline
- 1994: Started as Texas Recycles Day
- 1997: First national America Recycles Day celebration
- 1999: Presidential proclamation by Bill Clinton
- 2009: Became a program of Keep America Beautiful
Upcoming Dates
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | November 15 | Sat |
| 2026 | November 15 | Sun |
| 2027 | November 15 | Mon |
| 2028 | November 15 | Wed |
| 2029 | November 15 | Thu |
| 2030 | November 15 | Fri |
How It’s Observed
Communities across America organize thousands of events, including collection drives, educational programs, and recycling awareness campaigns. People take pledges to increase their recycling efforts and learn about proper recycling methods.
Fun Facts About Recycling
- Americans use over 2.5 million plastic bottles every 30 minutes
- One recycled aluminum can powers a TV for 3 hours
- Recycling one glass bottle saves enough energy to power a light bulb for 4 hours
- The U.S. recycles about 65% of its aluminum
- 105,800 cans are recycled every minute in America
Quiz
- Q: What type of packaging is commonly accepted in recycling programs?
- A: Paper, plastic bottles with necks, and metal cans
FAQs
Q: What are the different types of recycling?
A: Primary (same material to same product), Secondary (same material to different product), and Tertiary (chemical transformation)
Related
- Earth Day
- World Environment Day
- Zero Waste Week
- National Clean Up Day
- Global Recycling Day