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Note: EPA no longer updates this information, but it may be useful as a reference or resource.
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The Resource Conservation Challenge (RCC) is a national effort to conserve natural resources and energy by managing materials more efficiently. The goals of the RCC are to:
- Prevent pollution and promote reuse and recycling;
- Reduce priority and toxic chemicals in products and waste; and
- Conserve energy and materials.
EPA identified four national priorities or focus areas for the RCC:
What's Happening
Resource Conservation Challenge Update: Materials Matter (PDF) (36 pp, 2.5MB)
- Municipal Solid Waste
EPA has issued a nationwide challenge for consumers, businesses, organizations, and industries to recycle 35% of America's municipal solid waste—commonly known as trash or garbage. Waste is a part of everyone’s daily life, from office paper to product packaging. By managing materials and making smart decisions, we can all make an impact. Learn about EPA programs such as Greenscapes, Recycle on the Go, and WasteWise.
- Green Initiatives—Electronics
The quantity of computers, televisions, and other electronic products that we purchase, use, and discard is steadily increasing. EPA is collaborating through national partnerships to address the full life cycle of electronics products, including design, operation, reuse, recycling, and disposal. Do your part by recycling televisions, computers, cell phones, and other electronics through EPA programs such as Plug-In to eCycling.
- Industrial Materials Recycling
Management and recycling of industrial products and materials are key priority areas. While typically not seen by the general public or part of most of our daily lives, these wastes are often generated in large volumes. Learn about EPA initiatives, such as the Coal Combustion Partnership Program, and the recycling and beneficial use of industrial byproducts generated during manufacturing processes.
- Priority and Toxic Chemicals Reduction
While comparatively low in volume, priority and toxic chemicals present potentially hazardous waste. Learn about ways to reduce the amount of hazardous chemicals in products and waste, and make smart upfront decisions with recycling in mind. EPA is working to eliminate or reduce priority chemicals in commercial products, waste streams, and industrial releases through programs like the National Partnership for Environmental Priorities and the Schools Chemical Cleanout Campaign.
The RCC consists of numerous partnerships and collaborations with federal, state, local, and tribal governments; industry organizations; businesses and corporations; and individual citizens. It is through these partnerships that you can get involved and make a difference.