EU glass recycling reaches record level as it prepares stricter single‑use plastic bans

In 2024 the European Union achieved an 82.2 % collection rate for glass packaging, the highest since the data series began. The figure, reported by the Close the Glass Loop initiative, falls short of the 90 % target set for 2030 and varies widely between member states. Officials highlighted the role of local authorities and industry in closing the gap and called for further investment in collection systems and recycling plants to improve both quantity and quality of recycled glass.

At the same time, the EU’s new packaging regulation (Regulation 2025/40) will start to apply on 12 August 2026, requiring all packaging placed on the market to be recyclable and free of PFAS and other hazardous substances. A subsequent ban on specific single‑use plastic items, including multi‑pack water bottles, netting for fruit and vegetable packs, and condiment sachets, will take effect on 1 January 2030. The measures aim to boost recycling rates, reduce hazardous chemicals in food contact materials, and move the EU toward a circular‑economy model for packaging.