The National Recycling Coalition created the day in 1997, according to HolidaysCalendar.com. Since then, the president has issued a proclamation recognizing the day and encouraging Americans to recycle.
In 2009, America Recycles Day became part of the Keep America Beautiful Campaign.
The nation’s recycling rate has risen from less than 7% in 1960 to 35% today, according to EPA figures.
An EPA study found that every 10,000 tons of materials recycled supports nearly 16 jobs and $760,000 in wages. Recycling is a $200 billion industry in the U.S., the EPA said.
Despite only representing 5% of the world population, the U.S. generates more waste than any other country in the world, according to the World Watch Institute. In less than 15 years, the institute said worldwide waste is expected to double.