What we recycle

Plastics

Plastics are composed of polymers i.e., compounds made of many small molecules.

Ferrous metals

Ferrous metals, primarily composed of iron, include materials like steel and cast iron, which are commonly found in construction, manufacturing, and transportation.

Non-Ferrous metals

Non-ferrous metals, such as aluminum, copper, lead, zinc, and titanium, do not contain iron and are valued for their resistance to corrosion and high conductivity.

Paper

Recycled paper is a versatile material that can replace or supplement virgin pulp to create new products like packaging, newspapers, and insulation.

Textiles

Textiles, including both synthetic fibers like polyester and natural fibers like cotton, are integral to daily life, with global production nearly tripling since 1975.

Tyres

Tyres contain multiple valuable materials such as rubber (75%), steel (15%) and textile fibres (10%).

Construction & Demolition

Construction and demolition (C&D) waste includes materials like concrete, bricks, wood, metals, glass, plastics, and hazardous substances such as asbestos.

End-of-life Vehicles

End-of-life Vehicles (ELVs) contain valuable materials like metals (steel, aluminum), plastics, rubber, and glass, as well as batteries.

E-waste

E-waste, otherwise referred to as waste electronical and electronic equipment (WEEE), is mainly composed of non-ferrous metals (nickel, copper, lead, etc.

Ships

End-of-life ships are decommissioned vessels that contain valuable materials like steel, metals, and electronics, along with hazardous substances such as asbestos, oils, and toxic chemicals.

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VACANCY: Communications Intern (CIP Internship)

Start date: May 2026Contract duration: 6 months (CIP Internship), with a possibility of a 6-month extensionLocation: Brussels, BelgiumApplication deadline: 15 April 2026 ________________________________________________________________________ Recycling Europe (formerly EuRIC) is looking for a Communications Intern to support its communications team and gain hands-on experience in event organisation, media, and stakeholder engagement. Please note that candidates must be […]

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Paprec x Recycling Europe interview

This interview was prepared and published in the framework of Recycling Europe’s 2025 Annual Report. Interview with Sophie Sicard, Deputy Director for Sustainable Development & Institutional Affairs 1.The past year has been particularly challenging for the recycling sector. From PAPREC’s perspective, what were the main developments or turning points for the industry in 2025? In […]

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Derichebourg Environnement x Recycling Europe interview

This interview was prepared and published in the framework of Recycling Europe’s 2025 Annual Report. Interview with Tess Pozzi, Head of Public Affairs 1. The past year has been particularly challenging for the recycling sector. From Derichebourg’s perspective, what were the main developments or turning points for the industry in 2025? The recycling industry is […]

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VACANCY: Policy Advisor

We are looking for a Policy Advisor with the following experience and skills: Your main responsibilities: What we offer: Eligibility Applicants must hold EU citizenship or a valid EU residence and work permit. To apply, please send your CV and motivation letter to info@recyclingeurope.org and include “Policy Advisor2026_Your Name” in the email subject line. Applications […]

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EU plastics package shows progress, yet offers no salvation

written by Recycling Europe The Commission’s package is a first step in the right direction. But first steps do not stop plant closures, nor do they secure Europe’s strategic autonomy in plastics. EU plastic recyclers need practical solutions, and they need them fast. The European Commission’s newly announced winter package to boost circular plastics marks […]

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VACANCY: Senior Policy Advisor

We are looking for a (Senior) Policy Advisor with the following experience and skills: Your main responsibilities: What we offer: Eligibility Applicants must hold EU citizenship or a valid EU residence and work permit. To apply, please send your CV and motivation letter to mveraduran@recyclingeurope.org and include “Senior Policy Advisor_Your Name” in the email subject […]