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EU Packaging Waste Drops; Belgium Leads Recycling Efforts

10/24/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Eurostat reported the European Union (EU) generated 79.7 million tonnes of packaging waste in 2023, averaging 177.8 kg per person.
The 2023 total declined by 8.7 kg from 2022.
Paper and cardboard accounted for 40.4% of packaging waste.
Belgium led recycling at 59.5%, while Hungary had 23.0%.
The Rethink Plastic Alliance recommended measures to boost recycling and reduce waste, including ambitious reuse targets and deposit return schemes.

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Story summary

Eurostat reported the European Union (EU) generated 79.7 million tonnes of packaging waste in 2023, averaging 177.8 kg per person.
The 2023 total declined by 8.7 kg from 2022.
Paper and cardboard accounted for 40.4% of packaging waste.
Belgium led recycling at 59.5%, while Hungary had 23.0%.
The Rethink Plastic Alliance recommended measures to boost recycling and reduce waste, including ambitious reuse targets and deposit return schemes.