Who makes the Recycling Naughty List?
As the jolly man in red makes his way around the world delivering presents to good boys and girls, it’s important to remember the impact our actions have on the environment.
While many countries have made strides in increasing their recycling rates, there are still some that lag behind. These countries, unfortunately, find themselves on Santa’s Recycling Naughty List.
| Rank | Country | Recycling Rate |
| 1 | Germany | 67.1% |
| 2 | South Korea | 59.7% |
| 3 | Austria | 59% |
| 4 | Netherlands | 56.8% |
| 5 | Italy | 55.4% |
| 6 | Belgium | 54.2% |
| 7 | Denmark | 53.9% |
| 8 | Luxembourg | 52.9% |
| 9 | Switzerland | 52.8% |
| 10 | Lithuania | 50.9% |
| 11 | Norway | 45% |
| 12 | Australia | 44.4% |
| 13 | United Kingdom | 42.9% |
| 14 | France | 42.7% |
| 15 | Slovakia | 42.3% |
| 16 | Finland | 41.6% |
| 17 | Latvia | 41.6% |
| 18 | Poland | 38.7% |
| 19 | Sweden | 38.6% |
| 20 | Ireland | 38% |
| 21 | Spain | 36.4% |
| 22 | Czechia | 34.7% |
| 23 | Estonia | 33.4% |
| 24 | Hungary | 33% |
| 25 | United States | 32.1% |
| 26 | Portugal | 27.6% |
| 27 | Iceland | 27.6% |
| 28 | Canada | 27.6% |
| 29 | Greece | 21% |
| 30 | Israel | 20.7% |
| 31 | Japan | 19.6% |
| 32 | Turkey | 12.3% |
| 33 | Costa Rica | 6.1% |
| 34 | Chile | 0.5% |
According to data gathered by Statista, the countries with the lowest recycling rates are Chile, Costa Rica, and Turkey, with rates of only 0.5%, 6.1%, and 12.3% respectively.
This is concerning, as recycling plays a crucial role in reducing waste and conserving natural resources. And, the alternative, landfills are terrible for the environment.
On the other hand, some countries have impressive recycling rates. Germany, for example, has a recycling rate of 67.1%, making them a shining star on Santa’s Recycling Nice List.
Other countries that have earned a spot on the nice list include South Korea, Austria, and The Netherlands, with recycling rates of 59.7%, 59%, and 56.8% respectively.
Disappointingly, the UK is still under a 50% recycling rate at 42.9%. But with Britain targeting 50% by 2025, it’s arguably on track. But getting to 70% by 2030 might prove to be a challenge.
It’s important to note that increasing recycling rates isn’t just good for the environment, it’s also good for the economy.
Recycling creates jobs and helps to reduce the demand for raw materials, which can save money and resources in the long run.
So, as we gather with our loved ones this holiday season, let’s not forget the importance of recycling.
We’ve even given you 21 ideas on how to make eco-friendly Christmas gifts this year!
Let’s strive to make sure our countries don’t end up on Santa’s Recycling Naughty List, and instead, work towards a more sustainable future for all. Happy holidays!
