A new industry data report has revealed that the average recycling rate of glass in the European Union (EU) rose above the 70% threshold, representing collection of over 11 million tons (mt) in 2011.
The new report has been published by the European Container Glass Federation (FEVE).
According to the latest data, the achievement comes on the heels of major efforts made over the past few years in all EU Member States to meet the 60% recycling target for glass.
FEVE president Stefan Jaenecke said glass recycling saves raw materials and energy, and reduces production costs.
"We have no problems in absaorbing more recycled glass provided that this is of high quality," Jaenecke said.
The latest data also revealed that by recycling glass in 2011 in the EU over 12mt of sand, soda ash, limestone were saved. Over seven million tons of CO2 were also avoided.
