Waste Paper, Record Recycling in Italy
Italy Leads Europe in Recycled Paper Production
In 2023, Italy reached a new milestone in waste paper production, achieving 6.9 million tons, a 5% increase over the previous year. This led to an overall recycling rate of 92.1%, exceeding the EU’s 2030 target. Specifically, the recycling of cellulose packaging reached 92.3%, surpassing the 85% goal.
A Multi-Billion Euro Industry
According to the 2024 Unirima Report, representing 90% of the sector’s companies, the Italian waste paper market generates a turnover of 4 billion euros. This positions Italy second in Europe for paper packaging recycling, well above the EU average of 79.3%. Approximately a third of the production is exported, with growing demand from Southeast Asia and India.
Export Growth and Declining Domestic Consumption
The production surplus compared to domestic demand allows Italy to export around 2.15 million tons of waste paper annually. In just the first half of 2024, the country has already exported one million tons. However, domestic consumption has dropped to 5 million tons, a 7% decrease from 2022.
The Role of Recycling in the Green Economy
Despite market fluctuations, the paper recycling sector remains a cornerstone of Italy’s sustainable economy. With 716 treatment plants nationwide, Italy stands out for its comprehensive and flexible recycling system. These factors allowed the country to reach the 2025 EU target for cellulose packaging recycling as early as 2009, and to exceed the 2030 goal significantly.
