According to the latest figures from the German Environment Agency (Umweltbundesamt, UBA) and the Central Agency Packaging Register (Zentrale Stelle Verpackungsregister, ZSVR), the dual systems achieved the statutory recycling targets for packaging made of paper, cardboard, tinplate, aluminum, and plastic in 2024. The material recycling rate for plastic packaging exceeded 70 percent for the first time in 2024.

The UBA and ZSVR emphasize how important proper waste separation remains for the overall success of recycling and at the same time dispel widespread myths, such as the assumption that the contents of yellow bins and bags are always incinerated or that glass waste separated by color is mixed together again during collection. The facts paint a different picture: those who separate waste correctly make a measurable contribution to resource conservation. And the German recycling system for packaging works much better than many people believe.

All recycling rates for 2024, as well as further details and classifications, can be found in the press release from the UBA and ZSVR: Fighting myths with facts – recycling packaging waste in Germany works. The German Environment Agency and ZSVR dispel common misconceptions about plastic and glass recycling