The report assesses the availability of bio-waste across the EU27, plus the UK and Norway, with a particular focus on food waste. In line with the revised Waste Framework Directive (WFD), which mandates separate bio-waste collection from January 2024, the report evaluates current capture rates and estimates the remaining recovery potential.
Based on national data and updated surveys, the study finds that current food waste capture in the EU27+ amounts to approximately 15.1 million tonnes per year—less than 26% of the estimated theoretical potential of 60 million tonnes. Recognising that full capture is unrealistic, the report defines an “operational potential” of around 85% of the theoretical maximum to reflect achievable performance levels. The findings highlight a significant untapped resource, as large quantities of food waste remain in mixed residual waste streams and are lost to incineration or landfill.
The report also reviews policy drivers supporting bio-waste separation, including circular economy objectives, soil health restoration, climate mitigation through carbon sequestration, and the development of bio-based industries. Best practice examples from cities and EU-funded projects illustrate effective collection and valorisation systems. Country-specific factsheets further detail national performance and opportunities, underscoring the need for stronger implementation measures and potentially binding targets to increase bio-waste capture rates across Europe.
Publication year: 2024
Language: EN
Published by: Bio-Based Industries Consortium (BIC); Zero Waste Europe (ZWE)
Keywords: bio-waste generation, food waste capture, separate collection, waste framework directive, circular economy, operational potential, soil organic matter, carbon sequestration, bio-based industry, waste valorisation
