Statistical release: it does not introduce duties or new deadlines.
The European picture
Eurostat reports that EU plastic packaging waste averaged 35.9 kg per person in 2024, with 15.3 kg recycled and a recycling rate of 42.4%. The release is dated 22 October 2026: the reference year and publication year are different.
What it means for businesses
An EU average does not certify the performance of an individual packaging item or producer. As an operational recommendation, NexusDPP suggests keeping quantities placed on the market, waste generated, waste recycled and product recycled content separate. Each indicator needs a defined scope, period, methodology and verifiable supporting records.
Traceability and legal requirements
This statistical release creates no new DPP duty and does not itself alter regulatory deadlines. It can inform company analysis and targets; product environmental claims require specific supporting evidence rather than an EU average alone.
Official sources
Verified against official sources on 29 October 2026. Operational recommendations are editorial analysis and must be distinguished from the legal status of the source.