You are going to have to look into the recycled materials markets and the funding sources of recycling centers to mine any hard data. Penn and teller basically base the entire thing on the problems with curbside residential recycling in the united states. The price per ton for mixed paper, household plastics and glass are very low, not enough to offset the cost of picking it up and sorting it. This is a problem in the US, not so much in europe. Recycling as a whole is a good idea, but only if it is done efficiently is the basic answer. Try a local search of public records for trash and recycling in your community. Look at the expense and income for these processes.
In reply to your comment:
“Hi, I'm doing a speech on recycling and I'd like some information on the negative aspects of it. I saw your comment on the Penn and Teller page, and was wondering if you knew of any sites that show proof of the ultimate waste recycling is. I appreciate it, thanks!!!”