California Carpet Recycling Rates Declined in Q2 2026
Statewide recycling rates dipped as new carpet sales saw a year-over-year decline for California residents.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Organic Food
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California’s carpet recycling program reported a recycling rate of 36.1% for the second quarter of 2026. This performance followed a rate of 37.8% in the first quarter of the year, amid a broader decline in new carpet purchases.
Why it matters
The slowdown reflects reduced market demand for post-consumer carpet materials and ongoing instability in global supply chains. These economic factors complicate efforts to meet established state recycling targets for building materials.
Official performance data for Q2 2026 showed a 36.1% recycling rate, a decrease from the 37.8% recorded in Q1 2026. These figures represent the state-monitored recovery performance for all carpet processed through the stewardship program.
The players
CARE
The stewardship organization responsible for managing carpet collection and recycling processes in California.
The details
The program coordinates with specialized recyclers to process discarded carpet into new materials, though current operations are hindered by weak demand for these recycled fibers. Meanwhile, the organization is navigating regulatory changes including the implementation of AB 863 guidelines. Legislative shifts under AB 904 are also expected to push back specific manufacturer back-stamping requirements until 2028.
Timeline
2013: This year marked the peak for annual carpet sales.
Q1 2026: The recycling rate was 37.8%.
Q2 2026: The program recycling rate was 36.1%.
2028: Mandatory post-consumer carpet content requirements take effect.
Health Landscape
The current performance occurs within the operational bounds of the California carpet stewardship program. It tracks against a broader historical decline, with current sales sitting approximately 54% lower than the 2013 peak.
While recycling statistics primarily reflect industrial trends, they underscore the shifting availability of sustainable flooring options for your home environment. If you are planning a renovation, discuss the recyclability of specific flooring materials with your contractor or local waste authority.
The takeaway
The Q2 2026 recycling results indicate that supply chain turbulence continues to influence the recovery of building materials in California. When upgrading your home, consider checking the manufacturer's environmental certifications to understand the end-of-life options for your new flooring.
Further reading
Learn more about sustainable material management in the Organic Food section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Floordaily.
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