Plastic waste in the EU: how much is generated and which countries are leaders in recycling

In 2023, 79.7 million tons of packaging waste were generated in the European Union, which is an average of 177.8 kg per capita. Although this figure is 8.7 kg less than in 2022, it remains 21.2 kg higher compared to 2013. In particular, 35.3 kg of plastic waste is generated per person, of which 14.8 kg was recycled, according to Eurostat.

In terms of the structure of packaging waste in the EU, the largest share is occupied by: paper and cardboard - 40.4%, plastic - 19.8%, glass - 18.8%, wood - 15.8%, metal - 4.9%, other packaging - 0.2%. Compared to 2022, the amount of plastic waste generated decreased by 1 kg per capita, while recycling increased by 0.1 kg.

Over the past decade, from 2013 to 2023, the amount of plastic waste generated increased by 6.4 kg per capita, while the amount of waste recycled increased by 3.8 kg. This demonstrates gradual progress in the implementation of plastic sorting and recycling systems in the EU.

In 2023, the recycling rate of plastic waste in the EU was 42.1%, which is higher than the 2013 figure of 38.2%. This demonstrates a significant increase in the effectiveness of environmental programs and measures to reduce the impact of plastic on the environment.

The highest recycling rates of plastic waste were recorded in Belgium (59.5%), Latvia (59.2%) and Slovakia (54.1%). These countries are actively implementing waste sorting programs and stimulating the secondary use of plastics, which significantly reduces the amount of waste going to landfills.

In contrast, the lowest recycling rates are recorded in Hungary (23.0%), France (25.7%) and Austria (26.9%). This indicates the need to strengthen environmental policies and invest in modern recycling facilities in these countries.

Overall, the 2023 data show that, despite the growth in plastic waste, the EU is gradually improving its recycling and reuse system, and the difference between countries shows the potential for further development of plastic recycling infrastructure.