The United Kingdom leads European paper and cardboard waste exports, contributing approximately 4.42 million metric tons, followed by the Netherlands and Germany. In 2023, the UK’s exports slightly declined, while significant decreases were seen in France and Belgium. Conversely, Poland and Romania enjoyed a notable increase in exports, showcasing strong growth in waste export capabilities. Older EU members like Italy and Greece showed stability with positive growth. Overall, the past year indicated mixed performances with variations reflecting each country’s evolving resource management strategies.
Future trends to monitor include the potential effects of stricter EU recycling regulations, technological advancements in waste processing, and shifts in global demand for recyclable materials. Countries with increasing exports, like Poland, may continue to capitalize on these changes, while established exporters such as the UK and Germany might focus on innovation and efficiency to maintain their leadership.
Top countries in Paper and Cardboard Waste Exports by Country
| # | 10 Countries | Metric Tons | Last Year | YoY | 5-years CAGR | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 United Kingdom | 4,419,600 | 2023 | +0.13% | -0.31% | View data |
| 2 | 2 Netherlands | 2,594,900 | 2023 | +1.05% | -1.45% | View data |
| 3 | 3 Germany | 2,327,200 | 2023 | +1.61% | -3.28% | View data |
| 4 | 4 Italy | 1,929,300 | 2023 | +2.04% | +0.18% | View data |
| 5 | 5 France | 1,788,800 | 2023 | -8.52% | -6.66% | View data |
| 6 | 6 Poland | 1,296,400 | 2023 | +3.6% | +5.29% | View data |
| 7 | 7 Belgium | 1,108,500 | 2023 | -5.46% | -6.92% | View data |
| 8 | 8 Spain | 838,350 | 2023 | +4.71% | -1.37% | View data |
| 9 | 9 Czech Republic | 663,620 | 2023 | -4.13% | -4.01% | View data |
| 10 | 10 Portugal | 487,700 | 2023 | +4.08% | +3.24% | View data |