SEATTLE (Recycling Monster): Michigan set a new recycling milestone, collecting 800,940 tons of materials during fiscal year 2024–2025, according to data released by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE). The announcement coincided with celebrations for Earth Day, officially recognized by Gretchen Whitmer.

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The total recycling volume equates to nearly 158 pounds per person, including cardboard, plastics, glass, metals, and food waste. Among the materials collected, paper and paper products led with 577,000 tons, followed by 60,000 tons of glass and 41,000 tons of plastics.

To illustrate the scale, the total recyclables weigh as much as 10 Mackinac Bridge structures. The volume could fill major venues such as Ford Field, Michigan Stadium, and Spartan Stadium, as well as the 125-acre Detroit Zoo.

Officials noted that if placed in recycling carts, the materials would stretch around the moon more than three times, highlighting the program’s scale and impact. The milestone underscores Michigan’s growing focus on sustainability, supported by statewide initiatives, public participation, and ongoing environmental awareness efforts tied to Earth Day activities.