UK Achieves Fastest Growth in Recycling Rates in Europe Over Past Decade

Figures announced on Tuesday by the European Environment Agency (EEA) show that recycling rates in the UK increased faster in the first decade of the millennium than any other country in Europe.

Starting from a low base in 2001 – UK recycling rates were just 12% for all municipal waste – rates increased rapidly over the following decade, reaching 39% by 2010 – a figure just above the EU average of 35%.

Although some countries, such as Germany, Austria and Belgium, already recycle more than half of their waste, the EEA warned that many nations will fail to meet a European directive of recycling 50% of waste by 2020.

Jacqueline McGlade, EEA Executive Director, commented: “…the current intense demand for some materials should alert countries to the clear economic opportunities in recycling.”

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