Which Country Recycles The Most Cardboard?
Paper and cardboard packaging is one of the most recycled packaging types across the European Union. Recycling cardboard waste is essential to minimising pollution and saving scarce raw materials in production.
In recent years, almost all EU member states have reported a recycling rate of more than 70%, while three have reached rates of more than 90%. Only Malta has a recycling rate below 50 percent for paper and cardboard packaging.
Germany
The recycling rate for paper and cardboard packaging in Germany was 99.8% in 2021. Rates were close to 100% in recent years.
Germany consistently ranks as one of the top performers when it comes to recycling. This success can be attributed to the country’s long-established recycling infrastructure, stringent waste management policies, and the widespread adoption of a dual system for separating recyclables.
German citizens are highly engaged with recycling practices, and businesses are obligated to follow strict guidelines to ensure that packaging waste is properly sorted and processed.
Wales
Wales boasts one of the highest recycling rates not only in the UK but globally, with 92% of people recycling their cardboard waste. The Welsh government has set ambitious goals, aiming to become a zero-waste nation by 2050, and its progressive policies have been key to this achievement.
Wales’ success can be traced to effective public education campaigns, strict local authority targets, and innovative curbside recycling schemes. The focus on resource efficiency has helped create a strong recycling culture, where household participation is high, and businesses are encouraged to recycle as part of the country’s push toward sustainability.
Austria
In Austria, the recycling quota of packaging made of paper, cardboard and corrugated board was 85% in 2022. Austria’s approach to recycling has long been admired, as the country prioritises waste separation and eco-consciousness.
Austria’s well-organised waste management system plays a crucial role in the nation’s recycling success. Citizens are well-versed in sorting waste at the source, and there is significant government investment in ensuring that recycling facilities are accessible and efficient.
Switzerland
Switzerland is known for its environmental leadership, and its 80% recycling rate for paper and cardboard is a testament to the country’s commitment to sustainability.
Swiss citizens are highly disciplined when it comes to waste separation, with many cities and towns having comprehensive systems for collecting and sorting recyclables. The Swiss government’s focus on innovation and environmental protection continues to drive strong recycling performance.
The Netherlands
The Netherlands has developed a robust recycling system that recycles around 80% of its paper and cardboard waste. Dutch recycling practices benefit from strong collaboration between government, industry, and citizens, fostering a culture of responsibility when it comes to waste.
The Netherlands’ commitment to circular economy principles has led to continuous improvements in waste management, with a focus on reducing waste generation and improving material recovery rates.
Increase Cardboard Recycling Rates For The UK
At Collect and Recycle, we specialise in recycling cardboard waste for businesses across the UK. If you generate large volumes of cardboard waste, whether baled or palletised, we can offer a collection service nationwide. This ensures your cardboard waste is transported to licensed recycling facilities and sent for repurposing into new products.
