Eurostat has just issued some data on packaging waste. Recycling is increasing, but there is still a long way to go.

How much packaging waste was generated in 2023?

79.7 million tonnes were generated in the EU, or 177.8 kg per inhabitant. This is 8.7 kg less per person compared with 2022, but still 21.2 kg higher than in 2013.

What is this waste made of?

40.4% was paper and cardboard, 19.8% was plastic, 18.8% glass, 15.8% wood, 4.9% metal and 0.2% other packaging.

What about plastic packaging waste?

In 2023, an average of 35.3 kg was generated for each person living in the EU. Out of this, 14.8 kg were recycled.

Increase in plastic packaging waste recycling

In 2023, the EU recycled 42.1% of all the generated plastic packaging waste, a 38.2% increase compared with 2013. Belgium recorded the highest recycling rate at 59.5%, followed by Latvia (59.2%) and Slovakia (54.1%). The lowest rates were recorded in Hungary (23.0%), France (25.7%) and Austria (26.9%).