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Sweden fails to meet packaging recycling targets
Despite stricter requirements for collection and recycling, Sweden appears set to miss the EU’s packaging recycling targets for 2030. Plastic packaging, in particular, is falling far short of the 55 per cent recycling goal. This is revealed in a new report in which Näringslivets Producentansvar (NPA) analyses what is needed to reach the targets.
– Sweden will not meet the targets. We all need to do more – producer responsibility organisations, producers, municipalities, businesses and households. But political decisions are also required throughout the entire chain, says Henrik Nilsson, Head of Marketing & Public Affairs at NPA.
Failing to meet the targets could have serious consequences. From a climate perspective, the non-recycled plastic packaging is especially problematic, as it causes significant greenhouse gas emissions when incinerated. It also results in a penalty fee from the EU, meaning Sweden pays billions annually for plastic packaging that is not recycled.
The report “Återvinningsmålen för förpackningar 2030 – hur når vi dem?” highlights that plastic packaging in particular is far from the 55 per cent recycling target. According to the analysis, Sweden is likely to achieve between 37 and 51 per cent. Paper packaging also risks missing the target, while glass and metal packaging appear likely to meet the set goals.
– The report provides a comprehensive overview of Sweden’s actual position regarding packaging recycling and underscores the seriousness of the situation. But it also outlines a potential path forward to reach the targets. The most important conclusion is that cooperation must increase throughout the entire chain, and we hope the report can contribute to that, says Henrik Nilsson.
The report was produced by the sustainability agency 2050 Consulting on behalf of Näringslivets Producentansvar and analyses the impact of several measures, such as property-close collection, post-sorting, information campaigns and economic policy instruments.
Download the report ”Återvinningsmålen för förpackningar 2030 – hur når vi dem?” (in Swedish)
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