U.S. Recycling Markets: Paper and Metals Firm, Plastics Mixed
September 2026 recycling commodity prices showed stronger recovered paper and can markets, while PET and natural HDPE remained under pressure.
MONTREAL (RecyclingMonster): U.S. recycling commodity markets recorded mixed performance through September 2026, as recovered paper and metal prices held firm while several recycled plastic categories continued to face pricing pressure.
National averages from RecyclingMarkets.net, as of September 30, 2026, showed significant differences across major curbside recyclable materials, according to a market analysis published by Waste360.
Recovered Paper Prices Nearly Double in 2026
Old corrugated containers (OCC) reached $89.69 per ton, while residential mixed paper (RMP) averaged $38.44 per ton.
Both grades nearly doubled in value from the beginning of 2026, reflecting firmer recovered fiber market conditions despite uneven packaging demand.
Aluminum and Steel Can Prices Remain Firm
Sorted aluminum beverage cans averaged 96.56 cents per pound, equivalent to approximately $1,931.20 per U.S. short ton. Steel cans averaged $197.81 per ton.
Aluminum markets have been supported by supply disruptions affecting Gulf production, according to the market analysis.
Novelis' planned Bay Minette, Alabama, recycling and rolling facility is also expected to support domestic used beverage can demand when operations begin.
Plastic Recycling Prices Remain Uneven
Recycled plastic prices showed a more divided market. The September 30 national averages included:
- Natural HDPE: 40.25¢/lb
- PET: 2.55¢/lb
- Colored HDPE: 8.53¢/lb
- Polypropylene (PP): 7.13¢/lb
Natural HDPE and PET remained below their beginning-of-year levels, while colored HDPE and PP recorded gains compared with the start of 2026.
Looking ahead, the Waste360 analysis anticipates support for recovered paper from holiday packaging demand, followed by possible December weakness linked to mill maintenance. Can prices are expected to remain relatively stable, while recycled plastics face continued uncertainty from resin costs, imports and recycled-content demand.