France, a leading country in the circular economy
France is one of the countries most invested in recycling and extended producer responsibility (EPR) in Europe.
Regarding recycling, France has set ambitious targets to increase its waste recycling rates. For example, the target is to recycle 65% of household waste by 2025 and 100% by 2030.
To reach these targets, France has introduced a number of measures, including:
- Extended sorting instructions: More and more materials can now be recycled, such as plastic, metal and glass packaging, as well as paper and cardboard.
- Introduction of selective collection: Selective collection is now mandatory in all municipalities with more than 20,000 inhabitants.
- Development of recycling schemes: The government has invested in developing new recycling schemes, particularly for electronic waste and textiles.
Regarding EPR, France was one of the first countries to introduce this system. EPR requires producers to fund the collection, sorting, recycling and disposal of their products once they become waste.
This system has funded the creation of numerous recycling schemes and helped increase recycling rates in France.
Here are some examples of the results of France's investment in recycling and EPR:
- France's household waste recycling rate is one of the highest in Europe. In 2021, the household waste recycling rate in France was 65%, compared to an EU average of 42%.
- France is one of the largest producers of recycled plastic pellets in Europe. In 2021, France produced 1.2 million tonnes of recycled plastic pellets, or 10% of the EU's total production.
- EPR has helped create thousands of jobs in France. In 2021, the recycling sector in France employed more than 100,000 people.
France's investment in recycling and EPR has made the country a leader in this field. France is a model for other countries wanting to reduce their waste and develop a circular economy.
However, there is still progress to be made.
For example, recycling rates need to keep improving, particularly for plastic and textile waste. New recycling technologies also need to be developed to recycle more materials.
Despite these challenges, France is determined to continue its efforts on recycling and EPR. The country believes these efforts are essential to protect the environment and build a more sustainable economy.