The amount of paper and cardboard packaging recycled in Europe has reached a record high, according to figures published by the European Union (EU).
Ahead of Global Recycling Day, today, the figures collated by the EU show that 85.8% of paper and cardboard packaging is now recycled across its 28 member states.
This was the highest of the materials that were analysed, with metallic and glass packaging following in close second and third, with recycling rates of 78.3% and 74.1% respectively.
Other materials such as wooden packaging were also measured.
Tony Hitchin, General Manager for Pro Carton, the European Associations for Carton and Cartonboard manufacturers, said: “It is fantastic to see the recycling rate for paper and cardboard packaging reach such a record high.
“Our consumer research underpins these statistics with consumers confirming that cartonboard/cardboard is not only the most recyclable form of packaging but also the most environmentally friendly.”
Hitchin continued: “It’s a well-known fact that cartonboard is the most sustainable packaging option, it is not only renewable but also fully recyclable and biodegradable, making it the most economically and ecologically balanced packaging material.”
Today’s Global Recycling Day takes on the theme ‘Recycling into the Future’ and The Global Recycling Foundation will focus on the power of youth education and innovation in ensuring a brighter future for the planet.
