The Glass Recycling Industry is Continuing to Grow!

At long last, there is some good news for the planet – recent studies hint that rates of glass recycling on a global level are increasing, and predicted to rise even more in the decades to come.  

Glass recycling reduces the demand for raw materials and energy consumption, and also stops further waste from clogging up landfill sites – this sustainable approach is needed long into the future if we are to protect the planet’s resources for future generations. So, what does the glass recycling industry look like now, and what can we expect for the future? 

Glass Recycling Industry: Now and The Future 

The glass recycling market is predicted to reach around 5.5 billion dollars worldwide by 2025 – hinting at big growth, especially since it was worth around 3.5 billion in 2017. A large chunk of the industry stems from the recycling of bottles and other glass containers, which are the most commonly recycled item in the USA. 

Why might these trends be so impressive? One reason for this continent is that the drive for glass recycling has been pushed at a European level, with EU member states committed to targets regarding the recycling of glass packaging. This has encouraged, and is planned to continue to encourage, collaboration between companies, industries, manufacturers, and consumers. As of February 2019, the current EU rate is 74% of glass collection for recycling, which is an impressive figure. 

Europe is thought to become the fastest growing market globally in regards to its glass recycling – this is due to the excellent support from institutions, the law, and consumers. However, some countries are doing better than others, particularly Sweden, Finland, Austria, Belgium and Slovenia. Countries who are not performing as well as they could include Hungary, Malta, Romania, Greece, and the Slovak Republic. The truth is, each country will require its own individual strategy for it to be truly successful. 

Innovative solutions to glass recycling are emerging in all corners of the globe – such as a winery in Oregon, Portland, who have developed the very first reusable wine bottles. It’s these more inventive solutions that will continue to engage interest and aid the booming glass recycling industry. 

What are the benefits of glass recycling? 

• Reduces usage of raw materials 
• Conserves natural resources
• Promotes consumer awareness 
• Reduces energy consumption
• Reduces harmful gas emissions 
• Creates new job opportunities 
• Relieves strain on landfill sites 

All of these benefits then have a knock-on positive influence on both the environment and the economy. With trends predicted to grow, it’s at least one area where everyone is making beneficial progress.

The World is Continuing to Wake Up 

There is increasing evidence to suggest that millennials are seeking out choices that are more environmentally conscious. As such, they are more driven and willing to recycle glass, especially since there is the relevant infrastructure in place. Gradually, it has become easier to recycle, further encouraging not only millennials in environmental responsibility – but all generations. 

As the years go by, more people are also turning to green construction as a means to their green credentials. Green construction involves the use of low-energy techniques and design – this may mean a greater demand for recycled glass going into the future, further contributing to demands and recycling rates. 

What does Stevenage Glass do to help? 

Here at Stevenage Glass, we do our bit to help the planet. As a company that handles large quantities of glass on a day-to-day basis, we feel it’s important to support the natural environment through recycling all glass waste we produce, making sure it has a second home.

As a family-run firm with over 50 years’ experience, we’ve become the trusted glaziers for Stevenage, St Albans, and beyond. We craft high-quality glass products for homes and businesses across the area – this includes windows, doors, bespoke products, and more specialised items, such as splashbacks and showerscreens. Please contact us today to find out more.