Transformation through Waste
It is very important to understand the current, real status across Europe of Implementation of the EU Waste Framework Directive.
In Finland and other 17 member countries: we are actually at risk of missing EU waste recycling targets: “In 2023 the Commission published a report identifying Member States at risk of not meeting the 2025 municipal and packaging waste recycling targets and the 2035 landfilling target. This is based on the Member States assessment carried out by the European Environment Agency (EEA).
Member state assessment
Packaging waste is indeed a significant environmental concern, and addressing it has been a priority for many countries. The EU has been working on strategies and initiatives to tackle packaging waste and promote a more circular economy. The circular economy aims to minimize waste generation and maximize the reuse and recycling of materials. Taking Finland as an example: the country is “at risk of missing the target for the recycling of plastic packaging waste, which in 2020 was 39.4 %, significantly below the 2025 target of 50 %.” Finland is aiming to become one of the pioneers/ leaders in Circular Economy and we need to have the real picture of circulation of materials and act. Source: Environment EC Europa EU.
The EU has implemented various directives and regulations to address packaging waste. The Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive sets targets for member states to recover and recycle packaging materials. The Single-Use Plastics Directive also aims to reduce the impact of certain single-use plastic products on the environment.
However, despite these efforts, challenges persist. The reasons for the continued increase in packaging waste can be complex and multifaceted. Some possible contributing factors include:
- Consumption Patterns: Increased consumption and a culture of disposability contribute to higher levels of packaging waste.
- Lack of Standardization: Inconsistencies in packaging materials and recycling systems across member states can hinder effective waste management.
- Innovation and Technology: The pace of innovation in sustainable packaging solutions may not be keeping up with the demand for packaging materials.
- Collection and Recycling Infrastructure: Inadequate infrastructure for waste collection and recycling in some regions can impede progress.
- Awareness and Education: Lack of awareness and understanding among consumers about the importance of recycling and the impact of packaging waste can also play a role
It’s important to note that efforts to address packaging waste require collaboration among governments, industries, and consumers. Ongoing initiatives, research, and innovation in sustainable packaging materials and waste management technologies can contribute to finding more effective solutions.
Source: Enviroment EC Europa EU
With our services and recycling products: we help with the execution of the waste management plan and to put the EU main recommendations into actions. Recycling and reducing waste is the first step. We help organizations to optimize production, packaging and recycling costs and guide the transformation of waste into wealth, keeping the valuable resources in the cycle::
- Helping with the convenience of separate collection of plastic packaging and biowaste with our Forever Bin collection.
- By organizing awareness-raising activities which target waste prevention with Circular workshops and other Zero waste activities.
- Help direct recyclables from waste incineration to higher steps of the waste hierarchy.
- Creating reuse cases for our corporate customers’ product packaging.
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