Global recycling: Austria ranks first

Reloop, Eunomia Research Consulting, the Welsh Government and industry players have released the Global Recycling League Table. The report examines the recycling performances of 48 countries to determine “which countries are the world’s best recyclers”.

The project compares a wide range of countries’ recycling rates on a like-for-like basis, with the focus on municipal waste recycling rates. The goal is to create a clearer understanding of the scale of the waste issue globally and regionally and contribute to national and supranational policy development.

Eight European countries are in the top 10, alongside Taiwan and South Korea, with Austria as the top performing country. Most European countries analysed are in the top half of the 48 countries.

The results can be interpreted in a variety of ways.

The good results by European countries show the positive effects of the longstanding EU strategies and policies to tackle waste and develop the circular economy, while many lower ranked countries come from the global south.

However, waste is an international problem that must be tackled through cooperation, and by sharing knowledge and best practice.

Landbell Group companies advocate for a global circular economy – for example, through close cooperation with countries in the global south (see article here) or participation in the Business Coalition for a Global Plastics Treaty (see article here).

Moreover, Landbell Group is engaged in multiple projects in Asia, Africa and the Middle East to establish effective waste management solutions (see below for more information).

It is not only about recycling processes and compliance, it is also about networking. ERP shares knowledge, insights, and news so that together we can promote the sustainable agenda.