The European Paper Recycling Council (EPRC) has announced that Europe recycled 75.1% of all paper products in 2024, including graphic papers, packaging, and tissue.
This performance aligns with the sector’s long-term growth trend and signals continued progress toward its voluntary recycling target of 76% by 2030.
While slightly below the 2023 figure, which was boosted by exceptional destocking activity across several industries, the 2024 rate remains consistent with Europe’s leadership in circularity. The EPRC notes that the continent continues to have the highest paper recycling rate globally, ahead of North America, which reported a 68.2% rate.
"The European market of paper for recycling is well-functioning, and we are well on track to meet our self-imposed target," said Valeria Salvadori, Chair of the EPRC. She highlighted the role of the sector’s early commitment to circularity, dating back to 2002, in establishing Europe as a global benchmark.
Paper packaging remains a standout performer, reaching an 83.1% recycling rate—the highest among all packaging materials. Additionally, the majority of European countries now exceed a 70% recycling rate for paper products.
To further advance, the EPRC stresses the need for improved collection systems, enhanced recyclability through eco-design, and broader innovation and collaboration across the paper value chain.
The EPRC’s 2024 Monitoring Report is available for download and offers detailed insights into recycling performance across Europe’s paper sector.
The European Paper Recycling Council (EPRC) was established in 2000 to monitor and promote progress towards increased paper recycling in Europe. It brings together key stakeholders from the paper value chain, including paper manufacturers, recyclers, publishers, printers, municipalities, and NGOs. The EPRC is responsible for setting voluntary recycling targets, publishing annual monitoring reports, and fostering best practices to support the circular economy within the European paper industry.
