In 2023, Germany led Europe in recycled plastic packaging waste, accounting for 20.22 metric tons, closely followed by the United Kingdom with 14.88 metric tons. Other significant contributors included Italy (13.58), Spain (11.51), and France (8.19). Notable year-on-year increases in recycled plastic waste were observed in Poland (5.82%), Hungary (6.13%), Ireland (6.84%), and Finland (14.31%), reflecting robust recycling efforts and policies. Conversely, countries like Romania (-3.16%), Austria (-1.25%), and Slovenia (-2.23%) saw reductions, possibly indicating challenges in waste management infrastructure or policy implementation.
Future trends to watch in European recycled plastic packaging include continued growth in recycling capabilities in both Western and Eastern European countries, with particular attention towards innovations in plastic recycling technologies and increased regulatory measures aimed at reducing plastic waste. Stricter EU mandates and rising consumer awareness are expected to drive significant changes in the sector, promoting higher recycling rates and broader adoption of sustainable practices across the continent.
Top countries in Recycled Plastic Packaging Waste Share by Country (Metric Tons)
| # | 10 Countries | Percent | Last Year | YoY | 5-years CAGR | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Germany | 20.22 | 2023 | +1.01% | +2.07% | View data |
| 2 | 2 United Kingdom | 14.88 | 2023 | +3.08% | +3.74% | View data |
| 3 | 3 Italy | 13.58 | 2023 | +3.06% | +2.45% | View data |
| 4 | 4 Spain | 11.51 | 2023 | +9.17% | +2.75% | View data |
| 5 | 5 France | 8.19 | 2023 | +7.22% | +1.56% | View data |
| 6 | 6 Poland | 5.59 | 2023 | +3.44% | +5.82% | View data |
| 7 | 7 Netherlands | 3.37 | 2023 | +1.9% | +0.69% | View data |
| 8 | 8 Belgium | 2.31 | 2023 | +3.26% | +5.57% | View data |
| 9 | 9 Czech Republic | 2.1 | 2023 | +10.15% | +2.8% | View data |
| 10 | 10 Portugal | 2.07 | 2023 | +2.83% | +4.2% | View data |
