The Economics of Waste Paper Recycling in the EU

The European Union leads the world in paper recycling with a recycling rate of about 75 % in 2024 for all paper products such as packaging and graphic paper. This places Europe on track to reach its voluntary target of 76 % by 2030.

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Why Waste Paper Recycling matters Economically

Waste paper is not just a sustainability target. It is a core raw material for Europe’s pulp and paper industries. Using recycled fibres in production reduces dependence on virgin wood and lowers production costs for manufacturers. It also decreases pressure on forests and supports the circular economy.

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A study linked to the sector suggests that increasing the recycling rate by just 9 % could add up to €1 billion in annual economic value by 2030. This figure reflects savings from resource efficiency, reduced waste management costs, and increased availability of recycled inputs for industry.

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Market Size and Trade

Recycled paper has a robust secondary market within the EU. Prices for waste paper recycled into new material have climbed toward around €94 per tonne in 2024, with monthly peaks above €100 per tonne, showing strong demand for material that can be reprocessed into new products.

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Regional trade is significant. Internal EU markets for secondary materials like paper and cardboard remain active, with steady volumes traded month to month. This intra-EU circulation keeps economic activity within the bloc and supports industries that rely on recycled feedstocks.

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Business and Policy impact

For businesses, higher recycling rates mean savings on raw material costs and improved competitiveness. For policymakers, boosting recycling links directly to broader EU goals on resource efficiency, waste reduction, and innovation in green industries.

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Recyclability and collection improvements are seen as key levers to sustain economic benefits and help achieve EU recycling commitments.

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In summary, the EU achieved a 75 percent recycling rate for paper in 2024 and is on track to reach a target of 76 percent by 2030. Recycled paper continues to command strong secondary market prices, with values nearing €100 per tonne, reflecting steady demand across the sector.

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Looking ahead, increasing recycling rates could generate around €1 billion per year in additional economic value by 2030. Taken together, waste paper recycling is not only an environmental success but also a growing economic engine with clear benefits for European markets and manufacturers.

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