EU packaging waste increases as recycling lags behind targets

New Eurostat data reveals that packaging waste in the European Union rose to 81.5 million tonnes in 2024, averaging 181 kilograms per capita. This represents an increase of 3.2 kilograms per person compared to 2023 and a 12 percent rise since 2014.

Paper and cardboard constitute the largest share of waste at 40.8 percent, followed by plastic at 19.9 percent and glass at 18.1 percent. While the plastic recycling rate saw a slight increase from 41.6 to 42.4 percent, the EU remains significantly below the 2025 target of 50 percent recycling for plastic packaging.

In response to these challenges, the European Commission has launched a public consultation regarding the use of bio-based raw materials in plastic packaging. Running until January 13, 2027, this consultation aims to evaluate technological developments and environmental impacts to inform potential new requirements under the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). The initiative seeks to explore whether bio-based alternatives can reduce CO2 footprints and decrease the EU's dependence on fossil fuel imports.