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Congressman Burchett introduces Recycled Plastic in Asphalt Act

October 21, 2022

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (Oct. 21, 2022) – Today, U.S. Representative Tim Burchett (TN-02) introduced the Recycled Plastic in Asphalt Act as part of his ongoing efforts to spur innovation in the recycling and waste industry. 

“If we want to take care of our environment, we need to rely on more innovative green solutions than just wind & solar,” said Rep. Burchett. “Studying the real-world use of RPM asphalt will take us a step closer to building a cleaner infrastructure and a cleaner future.” 

The Recycled Plastic in Asphalt Act would direct the U.S. Department of Transportation to develop a research program to review and evaluate the use of recycled plastic modified (RPM) asphalt mixtures and provide an annual report on any ongoing research.  

RPM asphalt uses recycled plastic as one of its ingredients. Early data indicates this asphalt could increase roadway life and performance while providing another use for plastics that may otherwise end up in a landfill.  

Rep. Burchett introduced the bipartisan Recycling and Composting Accountability Act earlier this year, and launched a series of “Tim’s Tours” where he toured East Tennessee waste and recycling facilities to learn more about the industry.  

The full text of the bill can be found here.  

This bill is supported by the National Asphalt Pavement Association, the PLASTICS Industry Association, and the American Chemistry Council.