Juanjo Trujillo

Generación de residuos en Europa

Since 2010, waste generation in the EU has increased, though at a slower pace than economic growth, indicating a slight decoupling between the two. Between 2010 and 2022, per capita waste rose by 3 %, while GDP per capita grew by 17 %.

The pandemic highlighted this link: in 2020, reduced activity led to lower consumption and waste, but both rebounded in 2022— suggesting that lockdown-driven behavior changes had more impact than existing prevention policies.

Trends vary by sector. In energy, waste reduction is tied to climate policies. In services and manufacturing, waste grows with the economy, though more slowly. Meanwhile, waste from water and waste treatment continues to rise regardless of economic trends, driven by technological and industrial factors.

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20 OTWO 70 / MAY 2025