ARC | Catalonia boosts selective waste collection but faces challenge to meet EU targets

In 2024, selective waste collection in Catalonia grew by 3%, reaching 47.1% of municipal waste, equivalent to 1.8 million tonnes. The organic fraction showed the strongest growth, up 6% compared to 2023, followed by packaging and paper/cardboard (both +3%), while glass fell slightly (-4%). Twenty-one counties surpassed 50% in selective collection, proving that efficient models such as door-to-door and closed containers are key. Despite a 2% rise in overall waste generation (3.86 million tonnes), per capita generation stood at 482 kg/year, remaining below the European average, reflecting continued decoupling from GDP and population growth. 

Of the total, 39.2% was recycled, 19% went to energy recovery, and 31.5% to landfill, highlighting the need for stronger action to meet EU targets, which require reducing landfill to 10% by 2035. The Catalan Waste Agency stresses the urgency of improving collection systems and infrastructure to boost recycling rates and reduce landfill dependence. With over 400 municipalities already applying efficient models and a new waste law under development, Catalonia is advancing toward more sustainable waste management, but continued effort from institutions and society is essential. 

Source: https://residus.gencat.cat (in Catalan)