Author(s)

IONELA GAVRILA-PAVEN, RAMONA GIUREA, ANCA TULBURE, CIPRIAN CĂPĂȚÂNĂ, LUCA ADAMI, MARCO RAGAZZI

Abstract

This article explores the waste management and recycling sector, highlighting its importance within the context of the circular economy. By analysing key indicators such as the municipal and industrial waste recycling rate, the amount of waste generated per capita, the proportion of waste recovered through energy recovery or recycling, as well as management costs, it provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of the sector in Romania and the European Union. The main data sources include Eurostat, INSSE and the Romanian Environmental Protection Agency, ensuring a solid basis for comparisons and assessments. Additionally, supplementary indicators such as the proportion of biodegradable waste in landfills and the separate collection rate are discussed to highlight the challenges and opportunities in promoting a more efficient and sustainable waste management system. The article contributes to understanding the sector’s dynamics and identifying best practices for strengthening the circular economy in waste management

Keywords

sustainable waste management system, circular economy, sustainable development, recycling rate