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Romania's Recycling Soars to 94%!
27 Nov
Summary
- Beverage packaging collection and recycling rates jumped to 94% in two years.
- Over 7.5 billion beverage containers were returned since the system's 2023 launch.
- Romania transformed from EU's lowest recycling rates to a global model.
In just two years, Romania has dramatically improved its beverage packaging collection and recycling rates, reaching an impressive 94%. This achievement marks a significant shift for a country that previously held one of the lowest recycling rates in the European Union.
The national deposit return system, launched in late 2023, incentivizes consumers to return empty PET bottles, aluminum cans, and glass containers. Over 7.5 billion items have been collected to date, with the system's success now serving as a model for other countries looking to implement similar initiatives.
While praised for its success, environmental groups note that this system covers only a fraction of Romania's total waste. Efforts are ongoing to explore expanding the system and focus more on reusable packaging to further enhance Romania's circular economy efforts.
