61% of glass packaging consumed in Europe was recycled in 2006, according to figures from FEVE, the EU trade federation. Figures from new EU member states in which FEVE members produce glass were included for the first time, meaning that the data is not directly comparable with previous years. Some previously published data for 2005 has been updated. Collection of used glass packaging continued on its growth path. In 12 states, the EU glass recycling target of 60%, to be reached in 2008-2014 (depending on the country) was achieved or exceeded. Although some national data were not available for 2005, it is clear that once again the growth of glass recycling substantially exceeded that of glass container production in 2006. Growth was particularly strong in Italy, Portugal, Spain & UK, which are among countries with the highest growth potential for glass recycling. In fact, on 59% Italy was only 1% off target. The countries which achieved the 60% recycling target in 2006 were Austria (84%), Belgium (91%), Czech Republic (76%), Denmark (75%), Finland (72%), France (60%), Germany (89%), Ireland (81%), The Netherlands (77%), Norway (90%), Sweden (92%) and Switzerland (96%).
