The waste management industry protects not only human health but also the environment. However, rising populations, consumerism, economic growth, and increased urbanization have seen global waste generation soar. On average, roughly two billion metric tons of waste are generated each year, and this is expected to grow over the coming decades, putting increased pressure on the waste sector. The growing concern over waste pollution has only highlighted the importance and need for an efficient waste management infrastructure worldwide.
The waste management industry is responsible for the segregation, collection, transportation, recycling, and disposal of waste. It is segmented into three main waste types: industrial, hazardous, and municipal solid waste. These segments cover a wide range of materials, from food and plastic packaging to chemicals and electronics.
Municipal solid waste recycling rates in selected countries worldwide as of 2022
Further details: Visit original statistic Municipal solid waste recycling rates in selected countries worldwide as of 2022
With the volume of global waste generated set to grow in the coming decades – and with it the environmental impact of mismanaged waste – waste recycling is now more important than ever. However, recycling rates in many countries remain far lower than is needed. In the U.S., one of the world’s largest waste-producing countries, the recycling rate was lower than 25 percent, according to most recent data. The sector faces many challenges, such as high process costs and a lack of standardization.
Recycling in EuropeBattery recycling capacity worldwide as of December 2023, by country or region (in 1,000 metric tons)
Further details: Visit original statistic Battery recycling capacity worldwide as of December 2023, by country or region (in 1,000 metric tons)
With a growth in global electric vehicle adoption as part of the road transportation sector's decarbonization strategy, the demand for batteries has also been on the rise. Looking into the future, battery recycling has become a focus market, as a way to guarantee sustainability in the sector, and make it less vulnerable to mineral supply chain constrictions. As of 2023, China had the world's largest battery recycling capacity, at around 500 thousand metric tons.
Li-ion battery recyclingRevenue of selected major waste management companies worldwide in FY 2023 (in billion U.S. dollars)
Further details: Visit original statistic Revenue of selected major waste management companies worldwide in FY 2023 (in billion U.S. dollars)
The largest waste management company in the world is Veolia. The France-based multinational water and waste giant completed the acquisition of its former rival Suez in 2022. Nevertheless, many of the world’s largest waste management companies operate within the United States. The largest U.S.-based waste management company is aptly named Waste Management Inc, reporting a revenue of roughly 20 billion U.S. dollars for the fiscal year 2023.
Waste Management Inc.
The waste management category provides statistics and reports on all aspects related to the municipal, commercial, and industrial waste segments. These include topics such as waste generation, waste collection, treatment, and disposal, as well as waste pollution.
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