European Union e-waste collection gap widens

In 2024, the European Union collected 12.3 kg of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) per inhabitant, a figure significantly lower than the 32.4 kg of new equipment placed on the market per person.

Between 2015 and 2024, the amount of new electrical and electronic equipment entering the EU market rose by 79%, increasing from 18.1 kg to 32.4 kg per capita. This growth was primarily driven by large appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, and solar panels. While e-waste collection also increased during this period, it rose more slowly, moving from 7.3 kg to 12.3 kg per capita.

Collection rates varied significantly across member states. Bulgaria recorded the highest collection at 18.9 kg per capita, followed by the Czech Republic (17.8 kg) and France (17.7 kg). The lowest rates were found in Cyprus (4.7 kg), Portugal (6.0 kg), and Malta (6.4 kg). Regarding new market placements, Austria (38.2 kg), Germany (38.0 kg), and Denmark (37.0 kg) saw the highest volumes.

Eurostat noted that these figures may be underestimated due to challenges in monitoring cross-border online trade, non-compliant producers, and waste managed through informal channels.