This review summarizes recent trends in the recycling and upcycling of polymers and composites, focusing on thermoset and thermoplastic materials. Thermoset polymers, such as epoxy and polyester, are commonly used in fiber-reinforced composites, and their recycling is challenging due to their cross-linked structure. Thermal processes like fluidized bed and pyrolysis are used to reclaim fibers and separate them from the matrix. Fluidized bed recycling involves heating composite scraps to break down the polymer matrix, allowing for the recovery of fibers. Pyrolysis, which uses high temperatures in an inert atmosphere, also enables the separation of fibers from the matrix, producing gases, liquids, and solids that can be reused. Chemical processes, such as solvolysis, use solvents and catalysts to break down the polymer matrix, allowing for the recovery of fibers. Solvolysis can be performed at low temperatures and pressures or under near- or supercritical conditions, which are more environmentally friendly. Combined recycling processes, such as microwave-assisted and electrochemical methods, are also explored for their efficiency in breaking down polymers and recovering fibers. Microwave-assisted recycling uses microwave energy to selectively heat and break down thermoset composites, while electrochemical recycling applies an electric current to thermoset composites immersed in an electrolyte solution to induce chemical reactions at the polymer-electrolyte interface. Superheated steam recycling is another method that uses high-pressure steam to degrade the polymer matrix, facilitating the separation of fibers. The review highlights the importance of developing efficient and sustainable recycling methods to reduce waste and promote circularity in the polymer industry.This review summarizes recent trends in the recycling and upcycling of polymers and composites, focusing on thermoset and thermoplastic materials. Thermoset polymers, such as epoxy and polyester, are commonly used in fiber-reinforced composites, and their recycling is challenging due to their cross-linked structure. Thermal processes like fluidized bed and pyrolysis are used to reclaim fibers and separate them from the matrix. Fluidized bed recycling involves heating composite scraps to break down the polymer matrix, allowing for the recovery of fibers. Pyrolysis, which uses high temperatures in an inert atmosphere, also enables the separation of fibers from the matrix, producing gases, liquids, and solids that can be reused. Chemical processes, such as solvolysis, use solvents and catalysts to break down the polymer matrix, allowing for the recovery of fibers. Solvolysis can be performed at low temperatures and pressures or under near- or supercritical conditions, which are more environmentally friendly. Combined recycling processes, such as microwave-assisted and electrochemical methods, are also explored for their efficiency in breaking down polymers and recovering fibers. Microwave-assisted recycling uses microwave energy to selectively heat and break down thermoset composites, while electrochemical recycling applies an electric current to thermoset composites immersed in an electrolyte solution to induce chemical reactions at the polymer-electrolyte interface. Superheated steam recycling is another method that uses high-pressure steam to degrade the polymer matrix, facilitating the separation of fibers. The review highlights the importance of developing efficient and sustainable recycling methods to reduce waste and promote circularity in the polymer industry.