Processes for recovering resources from solid waste are subject to economic constraints in that the cost to the user of the reclaimed material must be competitive with that of raw materials. In this paper, the author examines what is being done to recycle significant items of solid waste and litter-paper, aluminum cans, glass containers, and textiles-and the economic barriers that operate against success in these efforts. Some proposals that might lower these barriers, are examined. This discussion is based on dialogue held with various trade associations and firms active in the field of recycling.