Final answer:
The percentage of trash that is recyclable varies, but according to the Environmental Protection Agency, approximately 15.2% of all trash sent to landfills in the US in 2017 was food waste. Local recycling authorities determine which types of waste are accepted for recycling, so it's important to stay informed.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to experts, the percentage of trash that is recyclable varies depending on the type of trash and local recycling authorities. However, the Environmental Protection Agency states that in 2017, approximately 15.2% of all trash sent to landfills in the US was food waste, which is one category of recyclable material. Additionally, a breakdown of typical municipal solid waste in China shows that about 8.5% is paper, which is another recyclable material. It's important to note that not all categories of waste are accepted for recycling, so people must be informed about what can be recycled and what should be thrown in the trash.