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Wales Exceeds Recycling Target, Reaches 66.6%

Wales’ latest municipal waste report for 2023/2024 reveals an increase in the national recycling rate, reaching 66.6%—a 0.9% improvement from the previous year’s 65.7%. This upward trend not only surpasses the 64% goal outlined in the “Beyond Recycling” strategy but also puts Wales on a promising path towards the ambitious 70% target set for 2024/2025.

Recycling Performance Across Wales

The recycling statistics encompass various types of waste management, including recycled, reused, and composted municipal waste. Notably, 18 of the 22 Welsh local authorities achieved or exceeded the 64% recycling target this year, a slight increase from the 17 that met the goal in 2022/2023.

However, Cardiff, Caerphilly, Flintshire, and Wrexham did not meet the target, with Cardiff reporting the lowest recycling rate at 60.1%. In contrast, Bridgend leads the way with a 72.8% recycling rate, showcasing significant strides in sustainable waste management.

Local Authorities Leading the Way

Six Welsh local authorities have already met or exceeded the 70% target set for 2024/2025. These top-performing areas include Bridgend, Pembrokeshire, Ceredigion, Swansea, Carmarthenshire, and Vale of Glamorgan. This accomplishment reflects the ongoing commitment and investment of local councils in improving recycling facilities and initiatives, paving the way for future progress across Wales.

Increase in Waste Volume, Decrease in Household Residual Waste

Wales saw a total of 1.4 million tonnes of local authority waste generated in 2023/2024, marking a 0.6% increase from the previous year. Positively, however, residual household waste per person has declined by 2.1%, now standing at 168 kg per capita, down from 172 kg. This reduction in non-recyclable waste per person reflects growing awareness and participation in recycling efforts across Welsh communities.

Comparison with the Rest of the UK

Wales’ recycling rate has grown from approximately 5% in the 1990s to the current 66.6%, a significant improvement driven by over £1 billion in government investment towards recycling infrastructure. By comparison, England’s recycling rate stands at 43.4%, with Scotland at 43.5%. According to recent Defra statistics, the overall UK household recycling rate for 2022 was 44.1%, a slight decrease of 0.5% from the previous year, attributed mainly to a dip in England’s recycling rate.

Looking Ahead

With Wales setting a new standard in recycling within the UK, the country is well-positioned to reach its 2024/2025 target. As Welsh authorities continue to focus on reducing waste and enhancing sustainable practices, Wales serves as a model of effective waste management for other regions aiming to boost their recycling performance.

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