SEATTLE (Recycling Monster): The Carton Council has announced continued expansion in carton recycling access across the United States, with nearly 2.5 million additional households gaining access in 2025. Net household growth reached 2,464,653, representing roughly 1.5% of all U.S. households. By year-end 2025, 63% of American households had access to carton recycling, while cartons were accepted in 86% of recycling programs by household.

Access data is independently verified through third-party measurement of local recycling programs that include food and beverage cartons. The 63% access rate marks significant progress from just 18% in 2009, when the Carton Council was founded. Residents can check eligibility through the organization’s address locator tool.

According to the The Recycling Partnership, approximately 73% of U.S. households have access to recycling services overall, underscoring strong carton compatibility within existing systems.

Community-driven initiatives fueled 2025 growth. In Austin, expanded MRF partnerships added 500,000 households. Oregon’s statewide EPR rollout increased access by 627,000 households. Additional progress occurred in Florida, North Carolina, and Iowa, reflecting targeted, infrastructure-aligned program improvements nationwide.

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