18 December 2025

Packaging Glass Recycling – a new study based on results reported by EU Member States to Eurostat

Close the Glass Loop presents a new analytical study on packaging glass recycling, based on the most recent data submitted by EU Member States to Eurostat. The publication offers a comprehensive and comparative overview of how glass packaging performs within Europe’s packaging waste and recycling system.

 

Rather than focusing solely on recycling rates, the study places glass packaging in context, examining total packaging placed on the market, recycled, recovered, and not recycled. This relative approach provides a clearer understanding of glass’ actual contribution to the circular economy and the remaining gap towards full circularity.

Using official statistics reported by EU Member States to Eurostat, the study compares national performances, identifies structural trends, and introduces new analytical tools to support evidence-based decision-making. It is designed to be a practical resource for the whole glass collection & recycling value chain to work towards EU recycling targets.

What the study covers

In this study, you will find statistical insights on:

• Progress towards achieving EU glass recycling targets
• Glass packaging recycling & recovery relative to the overall EU packaging mix
• A new Recycling & Recovery Efficiency Index
• Benchmarking glass recycling performance against purchasing power