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Spain is making steady progress in plastic recycling, even as Belgium and Slovakia lead the way across Europe. New data from Eurostat highlights both the EU’s ongoing challenge with packaging waste and Spain’s gradual improvement in reducing its environmental footprint – a shift that expats across the country are increasingly taking part in. According to Eurostat’s latest figures, Belgium recycled 59.5% of its plastic packaging waste in 2023, placing it among Europe’s top performers. Latvia (59.2%) and Slovakia (54.1%) followed closely behind. Across the European Union, the average recycling rate for plastic packaging rose to 42.1%, up slightly from 38.2% in 2013. The figures mark slow but steady progress toward the EU’s environmental targets, as countries work to reduce their reliance on single-use plastics and improve waste collection systems. In total, 79.7 million tonnes of packaging waste were generated across the bloc last year – the equivalent of 177.8 kilograms per person. Of that, 35.3 kilograms per person came from plastic packaging, with 14.8 kilograms recycled. Spain below the EU average but moving forward Spain’s plastic packaging recycling rate remains below the EU average, hovering in the mid-30% range according to national data. However, Spain continues to make notable progress. The country has expanded its network of recycling containers, improved waste collection systems, and encouraged better separation of household waste. The average Spaniard produced 167 kilograms of total packaging waste in 2023, well below the EU average – a sign that Spain generates less packaging waste per person than many other European nations. Environmental experts point out that regional differences persist. Areas like Catalonia, the Basque Country, and the Balearic Islands perform better thanks to stronger local initiatives and environmental awareness campaigns, while rural and southern regions are catching up. Expats in Spain join the sustainability shift For the growing expat community in Spain, recycling and sustainability have become an important part of everyday life. Many expats report clearer recycling guidance, more accessible public bins, and better waste management services than in previous years. From Mallorca to Málaga, local councils and community groups are working together to promote greener habits. Expat-led initiatives – including beach clean-ups, reusable product drives, and educational workshops – are helping to raise awareness and make sustainable living more mainstream. Understanding the system remains key: in most areas, yellow bins are for plastic and metal packaging, blue for paper and cardboard, and green for glass. Knowing what goes where can make a real difference in supporting Spain’s recycling goals. A sustainable path ahead While Belgium may lead the EU recycling rankings, Spain’s progress shows a clear commitment to change. With new EU-wide regulations and continued investment in circular economy initiatives, Spain’s recycling performance is expected to keep improving in the years ahead.
