Advanced Recycling and the Recycled Materials Attribution Act

Published August 11, 2026 · Featuring Thomas Aiello of National Taxpayers Union

Thomas Aiello, Vice President of Federal Affairs at National Taxpayers Union, discusses recycling policies and taxpayer interests on the Powering America Podcas

Thomas Aiello, Vice President of Federal Affairs at the National Taxpayers Union, discusses the importance of recycling infrastructure, plastic waste management, and energy policy in the latest episode of the Powering America Podcast. The conversation highlights the need for regulatory reform to enhance recycling efforts and reduce taxpayer burdens.

WASHINGTON — August 11, 2026 — Thomas Aiello, Vice President of Federal Affairs at the National Taxpayers Union, joined the Powering America Podcast to discuss the challenges and opportunities in recycling infrastructure and plastic waste management. The episode covers the significance of energy policy in shaping effective recycling practices and the implications for taxpayers.

Aiello emphasized the confusion surrounding recycling regulations, noting that the lack of a federal standard leads to inconsistent practices across approximately 7,000 municipalities. "The more we can get landfills reduced and the more we can recycle, the less taxpayer burden they will be," Aiello said. He pointed out that only about 10% of plastic is effectively recycled in the United States, with the majority ending up in landfills or being incinerated.

The discussion also touched on the need for legislative changes to support advanced recycling. Aiello stated, "If you treat it as manufacturing, it's treated as any other type of factory or manufacturing plant." He highlighted the potential for advanced recycling to transform plastic waste into valuable products, which could create jobs and stimulate economic growth.

The National Taxpayers Union is the oldest taxpayer advocacy organization in the United States, dedicated to promoting pro-taxpayer policies and reducing government spending. Established nearly 60 years ago, NTU works with lawmakers from both parties to protect taxpayer interests.

About the Powering America Podcast

The Powering America Podcast focuses on energy, infrastructure, policy, and economic growth. The show features expert guests who discuss pressing issues affecting the American economy and the role of energy in shaping the future.

About National Taxpayers Union

Founded in 1969, the National Taxpayers Union (NTU) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit advocacy organization dedicated to representing taxpayers at the federal and state levels. Known as the “Voice of America’s Taxpayers,” NTU promotes simpler and fairer tax policies, responsible government spending, sustainable fiscal policy, limited regulation, and greater accountability in government. Through policy expertise, public advocacy, and citizen engagement, the organization works to advance practical reforms that protect taxpayers and support economic prosperity.

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About the Guest

Thomas Aiello — Vice President of Federal Affairs

Thomas Aiello is Vice President of Federal Affairs at National Taxpayers Union. In this role, Thomas works to promote pro-taxpayer policies in the halls of Congress and within the Trump Administration. Prior to rejoining NTU, Thomas was a Director at the DCI Group where he specialized in ally development and leveraged his close relationships with think tanks and advocacy groups to advance client objectives. Before that he spent five years for limited government and lower taxes on the Government Affairs team at NTU. He’s also completed internships on K Street and in the United States House of Representatives for two members from his home state of New York. Thomas holds a bachelor's degree in Economics and Political Science from American University in Washington, DC. Originally from Long Island, New York, he enjoys staying up to date on local issues and rooting for the Yankees, Rangers, and New York Jets.

About the Powering America Podcast

The Powering America Podcast hosts conversations on energy, infrastructure, policy and economic growth — interviewing the operators, regulators, and innovators powering America's grid, gas, nuclear, and industrial future. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.