Waste Management Companies Demand Mandatory Quotas for Recycled Materials

Austria consumes significantly more raw materials than the global average, according to the association. In 2022, each person in this country used an average of 17 tons of resources, while the global value is 11.8 tons. The "Earth Overshoot Day" - the day when humanity has used up the resources that regenerate over the year - was already reached in Austria in March.

Austria with Top Values in Recycling

Although the country achieves top values in recycling, the recovered materials are used too little. "Recycling prevents resource waste. But as long as primary and secondary raw materials are not equated, there are no fair conditions for an efficient market," said Jüly. Therefore, in addition to the quotas, there is also a need for the legal equality of recycled materials with primary raw materials.

According to VOEB, the use of secondary raw materials is currently hindered by strict transport regulations, export regulations, and outdated laws. Additionally, the industry must be held more accountable: products should be designed from the outset to be easier to recycle.

Consumers can also contribute, emphasizes the association. Repair, reuse, and the avoidance of disposable products would conserve resources and prevent waste.

(APA/Red.)

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