The EU average collection of glass packaging for recycling reached 80.8% in 2023.

The latest data released by Close the Glass Loop shows that rate had increased by 0.6% from 2022.

Collection volumes remained exceptionally high in 2023, with more than 12 million tonnes of glass packaging collected for recycling.

The collection rate may even be higher, but tracking has become increasingly difficult as Member States are required to report on effective recycling, and no longer on collection for recycling.

While the progress is encouraging, further efforts and investments are needed to bring the necessary step change towards achieving the target of 90% glass collection for recycling by 2030.

This was the key message from European and national partners of Close the Glass Loop during its annual online press conference.

Carlo Pirrone, Secretary General of the European Container Glass Federation (FEVE), said: “Across the value chain there is a strong commitment to keep improving cost-effective separate collection system for glass packaging, both for households and hospitality businesses.

“Once glass packaging is collected, we estimate that 85% is effectively recycled in a closed loop. This is what gives glass packaging a unique role in Europe’s circular economy.”

On a national level, there are positive signals from Portugal and Greece, who increased by 12.6% and 11.1% respectively compared to 2022, outpacing the volumes placed on the market.

Spain also recorded a 7% increase in total collected volumes from 2022, jumping from a 69.9% to a 75.9% glass collection for recycling rate.

Finally, Italy, which represents close to 18% of the total market for glass packaging in the EU, surpassed the 90% glass collection for recycling target for the first time.

Olivier Deweerdt, Secretary General of the European Glass Recyclers’ Federation (FERVER), said: “Today’s progress shows that we are moving in the right direction, but there is still untapped potential to collect more glass and supply the glass manufacturing industry.

“Achieving recycling targets is a minimum, but every additional tonne collected is a valuable resource that helps us close the loop.”