In 2022, the EU recycled 41% of its plastic packaging waste. Despite some progress, significant challenges remain in closing the recycling gap across member states.

EU Recycles 41% of Plastic Packaging Waste in 2022, but Challenges Persist

The European Union's latest data reveals that 41% of plastic packaging waste was recycled in 2022, reflecting a slight improvement compared to a decade ago. Out of the 83.4 million tonnes of packaging waste generated across the EU in 2022, 19% was plastic, equating to an average of 36.1 kg of plastic waste per person. Notably, 14.7 kg of this per capita plastic waste was recycled. Over the past ten years, the generation of plastic packaging waste has increased, but so has the amount recycled, albeit at a slower rate.

Countries like Slovakia, Belgium, and Germany were among the top performers, with Slovakia recycling 60% of its plastic packaging waste. In contrast, countries like Malta and Denmark lagged behind, with recycling rates of only 16% and 23%, respectively. This highlights the discrepancies in recycling performance within the EU.


Eurostat's data emphasizes the importance of improving recycling efforts, as well as the need for more effective waste management strategies across member states. Despite the slight progress, the volume of packaging waste continues to grow, making it essential for nations to focus on reducing overall waste and boosting recycling infrastructure.

These statistics also bring attention to the broader challenges of managing composite packaging materials and ensuring accurate recycling measurements, following methodological changes introduced in 2020. The revised calculations now account for composite packaging materials, which often hinder recycling processes. The European Union continues to prioritize harmonizing recycling efforts across its member states to meet its sustainability goals.


The Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive serves as a guiding framework, pushing EU countries to enhance their recycling rates. However, to reach higher targets, significant investments in recycling infrastructure, public awareness, and circular economy initiatives are necessary. The directive, combined with Eurostat’s consistent tracking of waste generation and recycling, aims to streamline efforts and ensure that Europe continues to move towards a more sustainable future.


Keywords

EU, plastic recycling, packaging waste, sustainability, circular economy

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