WASHINGTON, Sept. 23 -- Sen. Tom Carper, D-Delaware, chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, issued the following opening statement on Sept. 22, 2021, at a hearing on the challenges facing domestic recycling programs and the need to transition to a circular economy: * * * "I call this hearing to order. Let me start by thanking our distinguished panel of witnesses for their willingness to join us today as we discuss an issue--and an opportunity--of great importance--the t  more