Circular material use rate

Greece’s circular material use rate has shown gradual improvement, rising from 4.2% in 2020 to 5.2% in 2023, yet it remains significantly below the EU average of 11.8% and far from the EU target of 22.4% by 2030. Addressing gaps in key waste streams is critical to achieving circularity goals.

1. Municipal solid waste. Greece’s recycling rate fell to 17.3% in 2022, well under the EU average. Enhancing separate collection systems and modern recycling facilities is essential.
2. Packaging waste. The recycling rate dropped from 54.1% in 2021 to 43.4% in 2022. Strengthening extended producer responsibility and upgrading collection and processing technologies is crucial.
3. Waste electrical and electronic equipment. Slow progress has been made, with 52 367 tonnes processed in 2022. Boosting take-back schemes, recycling infrastructure and enforcing laws are necessary steps.
4. End-of-life vehicles. With a 21.4% recovery rate in 2021, Greece trails far behind the EU. Improving dismantling and recycling technologies and ensuring compliance are key.

To meet EU 2030 targets, Greece needs robust policy reforms, improved infrastructure, innovative waste management practices, public awareness and strict enforcement of producer responsibilities.