European Total Waste Imports Extra-EU27 (2020) Share by Country (Thousand Euros)

In 2020, Belgium and Germany led European Total Waste Imports Extra-EU27, comprising over half of the total imports, with Belgium at 29.32% and Germany closely behind at 28.38%. Italy and Spain followed with 14.22% and 7.76% shares, respectively. Smaller import shares were noted for countries like Netherlands, Greece, and Lithuania. Over the last two years, significant increases were observed in Cyprus, Lithuania, and Poland, while France and Latvia experienced declines. Overall, a notable shift in import distribution reflects varying waste management capacities and strategies among European countries.

Looking ahead, it will be essential to monitor policy changes in waste management, the impact of the EU's Green Deal, and technological advancements in recycling infrastructure. These factors could reshape the landscape of waste imports, potentially reducing the reliance on extra-EU27 waste imports.