Congressman Nick Langworthy has introduced bipartisan legislation aimed at updating federal recycling standards to better reflect modern technology and support domestic manufacturing.
Langworthy, who represents Schuyler and Steuben counties, said the proposed Recycled Materials Attribution Act would revise outdated federal guidance that he argues no longer aligns with current recycling methods, creating higher compliance costs and uncertainty for companies investing in sustainable production.
Advanced recycling technologies use new processes to break down hard-to-recycle materials — including certain plastics and packaging — into raw components that can be used to make new products. However, Langworthy said existing rules make it difficult for manufacturers to consistently verify and claim recycled content.
The bill would formally recognize advanced and chemical recycling technologies and allow the use of certified mass-balance accounting systems to verify recycled materials in products.
It would also require the Federal Trade Commission to update its “Green Guides,” which provide environmental marketing standards for businesses. Those guidelines have not been revised since 2012.
Langworthy said the updates would help protect consumers while giving manufacturers clearer, more consistent standards and encouraging investment in sustainable practices nationwide.
