Dissertation | Page 29

2011 Recovery and Recycling Achievement Data Paper Total packaging waste arising (tonnes) Total recovered/recycled (tonnes) EU target (%) Recovery/recycling rate (%) 3,817,860 3,232,461 60 84.8 60 63.9 Paper composting 6,727 Glass 2,739,989 1,751,852 Aluminium 160,877 73,683 45.8 Steel 648,740 373,714 57.6 Metal 447,397 50 55.3 609,910 22.5 24.2 600,276 15 58.7 Total Recycling 6,649,065 55 60.8 Energy from Waste 685,612 60.0 67.1 Plastic 2,515,809 Wood Composting 442 Wood 1,023,939 Other 22,443 Total Recovery 10,929,657 6,641,896 Source: Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (2011) It is clear to see that recycling alterations through legislation and council enforcements have had a huge impact. It is clear that as a country we have exceeded European Union (EU) Targets. 16