This report assesses the potential to enhance the circularity of bio-based waste in the context of the 2025 update of the EU Bioeconomy Strategy, examining how key waste streams can move up the waste hierarchy, retain economic value and reduce environmental impacts. It establishes an EU-wide baseline of current generation, collection, treatment and reporting practices for bio-waste (food, garden and vegetal waste), wood waste, sewage sludge and agricultural residues, while also reviewing paper, textiles and bio-based plastics.
The analysis demonstrates that enhancing circularity represents a strategic opportunity for the EU to strengthen competitiveness, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve resource security. Substantial volumes remain outside circular pathways, including up to 68 Mt of bio-waste, 28 Mt of wood waste and 2.1 Mt of sewage sludge still managed through landfill, mixed waste or low-value recovery. These untapped flows represent both environmental burdens and missed opportunities for nutrient, material and renewable resource recovery.
The report identifies four overarching challenges: significant scale of unrealised potential; persistent data gaps and inconsistent reporting; contamination limiting high-value recycling; and technological solutions constrained by market immaturity and regulatory uncertainty. It concludes that progress requires action across the full value chain, strengthening prevention and separate collection, expanding treatment capacity, harmonising EU standards, stimulating demand for secondary materials, and reinforcing public trust, to advance a resilient and circular European bioeconomy.
Publication year: 2025
Language: EN
Published by: Magellan Circle; 3drivers
Keywords: bio-based waste circularity, waste hierarchy, separate collection, nutrient recovery, sewage sludge valorisation, agricultural residues, wood waste recycling, data harmonisation, secondary raw materials, circular bioeconomy policy
