Belgium achieved a plastic packaging recycling rate of 54% in 2022, securing the second spot among European Union countries, just behind Slovakia, according to data published Thursday by Eurostat.
The report highlighted the progress in recycling across the EU, where overall packaging waste reached 83.4 million tonnes, translating to 186.5 kilograms per inhabitant.
The 2022 recycling figures mark a 3.6-kilogram reduction in packaging waste per person compared to 2021.
However, the numbers also show a significant rise of 31.7 kilograms per person since 2012, underscoring the growing challenge of managing packaging waste in Europe.
The composition of this packaging was predominantly paper and cardboard (41%), followed by plastic (19%), wood (16%), and metal (5%).
Plastic packaging waste remains a significant environmental concern due to its impact on oceans, wildlife, and landfills.
The EU’s average plastic packaging recycling rate for 2021 stood at 41%, with 36.1 kilograms of plastic packaging generated per person, of which 14.7 kilograms were recycled.
The latest data shows a gradual improvement from a 38% recycling rate recorded in 2012, despite the overall increase in packaging production over the decade.
Belgium’s recycling efforts are notably higher than the EU average, showcasing the country’s commitment to waste management and sustainability.
It achieved a 54% recycling rate for plastic packaging, just behind Slovakia, which leads the rankings with a 60% recycling rate. Germany and Slovenia also performed well, each recording a 51% rate, rounding out the list of countries exceeding the 50% threshold.
At the opposite end of the spectrum, Malta had the lowest recycling rate in the EU at 16%, followed by Denmark at 23%, and both France and Austria at 25%.
The disparity in recycling rates across the EU highlights the varying levels of progress among member states in addressing packaging waste.
Countries with lower rates often face challenges such as limited recycling infrastructure, public awareness issues, or differing waste management practices.
Belgium’s success in plastic packaging recycling can be attributed to its well-developed waste management systems, which include mandatory recycling schemes and widespread public participation.
The country’s investment in state-of-the-art sorting facilities and robust regulatory frameworks has also played a crucial role in improving recycling outcomes.
Moreover, Belgium’s environmental policies prioritize reducing waste generation and encouraging circular economy practices, which contribute to its strong recycling performance.
Despite the positive progress, there remains a need for continued efforts to further enhance recycling rates across the EU.
The European Commission has set ambitious targets under the Circular Economy Action Plan, aiming for a 55% recycling rate for plastic packaging by 2030.
The latest figures indicate that while some countries are on track, others lag significantly behind, necessitating increased cooperation and innovation in recycling technologies and policies.
As Belgium continues to set an example for other EU countries, the focus on sustainable practices and reducing plastic waste remains critical for addressing the broader environmental challenges posed by packaging.
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