What share of municipal waste in Europe is recycled?
Like this map and want to support Landgeist? The best way to support Landgeist, is by sharing this map. When you share this map, make sure that you credit Landgeist and link to the source article. If you share it on Instagram, just tag @Land_geist. On Twitter tag @Landgeist.
Recycling has become an increasingly crucial aspect of waste management strategies worldwide, and Europe stands out as a region particularly committed to sustainable practices. With environmental consciousness on the rise, European countries have set ambitious targets to minimize waste and maximize recycling.
Europe boasts some of the highest recycling rates globally, with countries like Germany, Austria, and Slovenia leading the pack. According to Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union, the average municipal waste recycling rate in the EU-27 reached 49.8% in 2021, showcasing a steady increase over the years.
Germany is the best performer in recycling in Europe, with a recycling rate of 69.3%. Austria closely follows, with a recycling rate of around 62.5%. Slovenia is third (60.8%) and the only other country in Europe with a recycling rate of more than 60%.
Two countries that stand out at the bottom of the rank, are Kosovo (2.5%) and Montenegro (4.7%). These are the only countries on this map that have a recycling rate lower than 10%.
Another map that will be interesting to put next to this map, is the map of municipal waste generation in Europe.
Landgeist 