Solid Waste Services & Recycling
Companies in this industry operate materials recovery facilities (MRFs) that separate and sort recyclables from waste streams or separate commingled recyclable materials. Major companies include the MRF divisions of vertically integrated waste management companies such as Stericycle, Republic Services, and Waste Management (all based in the US), as well as Remondis (Germany), Suez Environnement (France), Veolia Environnement (France), and Waste Connections (Canada).
Worldwide, the recycling industry generated about $65 billion in market value during 2024 and is expected to increase by about $90 billion in 2032 with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 5%, according to Statista. The solid waste and recycling market is largest in developed nations, but growing fastest in developing countries with rising incomes and rapid urbanization, such as China and India.
The US solid waste and recycling industry includes about 1,400 establishments (single-location companies and units of multi-location companies) with combined annual revenue of about $6 billion. Companies that collect, treat, and dispose of waste materials are covered in the Waste Management Services profile. Companies that wholesale automotive, industrial, and other recyclable materials are covered in the Recyclable Material Wholesalers profile. Companies that provide wastewater treatment services are covered in the Water & Sewer Utilities profile.
Competitive Landscape
Demand depends on the volume of waste generated, which depends on economic conditions and consumer spending, and the perceived importance of recycling. The profitability of individual companies depends on efficient operations, because the service is a commodity sold based on price. Big companies enjoy economies of scale in purchasing equipment and establishing networks of facilities. Small companies can compete successfully by offering specialized services or serving local markets.
Products, Operations & Technology
Consolidation, storage, and preparation services account for the majority of industry revenue at about 50%. This is followed by nonresidential collection
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