Total waste generation

The national strategy on waste management and action plan 2020–2035 (NSWMAP) is one of the most important and essential documents in the field of waste, which aims to transition from a linear to a circular economy. Waste management is carried out in all urban areas but less so in rural areas. Waste is mainly dumped in places designated by local self-government units. Recycling has progressed over the last few years, as companies have been set up that collect and recycle metals, plastic, paper and glass. The collection and management of other waste streams has also begun, including hospital waste, batteries, oils and electrical and electronic equipment. The measures in the NSWMAP aim to achieve a 50% recovery rate for the main household waste streams – paper/cardboard, plastic, metals and glass – through recycling by 2035. Albania has made progress in reducing the total amount of municipal waste generated, which includes urban and non-urban waste and declined from 462 kg/capita in 2018 to 295 kg/capita in 2022. The waste recycling rate increased from 18.1% in 2020 to 18.9% in 2022.