Italy recycling: Paper and cardboard collections rise in Calabria and Basilicata

According to the 31st Annual Report by Comieco, the Italian regions of Calabria and Basilicata saw growth in paper and cardboard recycling during 2025.

In Calabria, total collections reached 99,600 tonnes, a 4.6% increase from 2024. While Cosenza recorded the highest volume with over 40,400 tonnes, Catanzaro led in per capita collection at 62.9 kg. Crotone collected nearly 8,800 tonnes. Comieco estimates that increasing collection by an additional 8,000 tonnes could provide municipalities with over 2 million euros in annual economic benefits.

In Basilicata, paper and cardboard recycling rose to 28,511 tonnes, marking a 6.9% increase compared to 2024. Potenza recorded the highest volume in the region, while Matera achieved the highest per capita yield at 62.8 kg. Comieco managed the recycling of approximately 19,000 tonnes in Basilicata, distributing roughly 1.8 million euros in economic compensation to 115 participating municipalities.