The Glass Recycling Foundation (GRF) has released its 2025 Impact Report, which revealed that only one third of glass is recycled in the US.

In the report, it was found that of the 12.3 million tons for glass containers generated each year, only 3.1 million tons were recovered for recycling.

In addition, it was discovered that 9.2 million tons of glass still goes to landfill annually.

GRF said its work would continue to address infrastructure gaps and expand access to glass recycling.

In 2025, GRF awarded $76,000 in grants that supported five projects, diverting 4,459 total tons of glass or over 8.9 million pounds of glass from landfills.

These efforts are made possible by donations from beverage brands, glass manufacturers, community foundations, trade associations, and others.

Scott DeFife, GRF Board President, said: “Our impact has grown more than sevenfold since 2022 - from 600 tons diverted to 4,459 tons this year.

“That progress is a direct result of the donors, partners, and communities who believe stronger glass recycling systems are possible.”

2025 funded projects supported by a GRF grant include:

  • Baldwin County, Alabama, $21K Awarded: Grant funding supported the purchase of collection containers, a glass crusher, and resident education to launch a new rural recycling programme. In its first year, the programme collected 24.4 tons of glass and served more than 3,000 residents in an area with limited end markets.
  • City of Macomb, Illinois, $15K Awarded: Funding supported the purchase of a glass dumpster from Ripple Glass to expand recycling access in McDonough County. In its first year, the programme collected 5.4 tons of glass and built strong community engagement through partnerships and public outreach.
  • City of Omaha, Nebraska, $13K Awarded: Grant funds enabled the purchase of a 20-yard roll-off container and 3,000 residential totes to improve operational efficiency and expand participation. In 2025, glass collection increased 4%, reaching 1,692 tons and serving approximately 140,000 households.

The full 2025 Impact Report is available here.

GRF will open its next grant cycle on May 11, with applications due on July 10.

The upcoming grant cycle will support projects that strengthen glass collection infrastructure and improve the quality and quantity of recycled glass through public education.

Eligible applicants include non-profit entities, municipalities, state and county governments, public waste management districts, and private industries with a public partner.