Bio-waste in Europe - turning challenges into opportunities

This report of the European Environment Agency (EEA) provides an overview of bio-waste prevention, generation, collection and treatment in Europe.  Bio-waste can play an important role in the transition to a circular economy, by both preventing its generation and capturing its potential as a source of valuable secondary resources.

The focus of this report is on food and garden waste from households and similar public and commercial activities such as food services. Bio-waste accounts for more than 34% of the municipal solid waste generated in 2017 in the EU-28. Recycling bio-waste is therefore crucial for meeting the EU target to recycle 65% of municipal waste by 2035.

Food waste accounts for nearly two thirds (60%) of all bio-waste from households and similar sources. More than other waste types, preventing food waste is perceived as an ethical responsibility for society.