Portugal urban waste production increases to 5.667 million tonnes

Portugal produced 5.667 million tonnes of urban waste last year, representing a 2.11% increase compared to 2024, according to data released by the Portuguese Environment Agency (APA). In mainland Portugal alone, waste production exceeded five million tonnes, averaging 494 kilograms per inhabitant, or approximately 1.35 kilograms per person per day.

Waste production in the mainland has risen steadily since 2021. While Madeira has seen an increasing trend, particularly over the last two years, the Azores saw a decrease in 2023 before increasing again in 2024 and 2025.

Regarding waste collection, undifferentiated collection remains the preference at 75%, while selective collection accounts for 24% of the total. In terms of waste management, 32% of urban waste underwent mechanical and biological treatment, 25% went to landfills, 19% to energy recovery, 13% to material recovery, 8% to source recycling, and 3% to organic recovery.

Currently, landfill deposition stands at 52%, significantly higher than the target of not exceeding 10% by 2035. Bio-waste constitutes the largest portion of total waste at 37.42%, followed by plastic at 10%, and paper, cardboard, and textiles at approximately 9%.