Top 5 Countries Producing the Most Waste in 2022: Insights and Prices of Environmental Impact

Katrina Ávila Munichiello is a seasoned editor, writer, fact-checker, and proofreader with over fourteen years of expertise in print and digital media.

As global populations and economies continue to expand, the volume of waste produced worldwide has surged dramatically. According to the World Bank's 2022 projections, global waste generation is expected to rise by 70%, climbing from 2.01 billion tonnes to an estimated 3.40 billion tonnes by 2050.

The 2022 Global Waste Index offers a detailed evaluation of waste management practices across 38 OECD member countries, assessing factors such as total waste generated, recycling rates, incineration, landfill usage, and instances of illegal dumping. The findings reveal alarming trends, with Turkey identified as having the most environmentally detrimental waste management system.

Key Highlights

• By 2050, global waste generation is projected to increase by 70%, from 2.01 billion tonnes to 3.40 billion tonnes.
• In 2022, Turkey, Latvia, Chile, Mexico, and Italy topped the list for highest waste production.
• Environmentally, waste incineration is favored over landfill disposal due to its reduced ecological footprint.

1. Turkey: Leading in Waste Generation Challenges

Turkey ranks first for having the least effective environmental waste management programs. While recycling efforts improved to 47 kg per capita in 2022, a staggering 176 kg per capita remains unaccounted for, often ending up in illegal dumpsites.

2. Latvia: Advancing Waste Management Strategies

Latvia holds the second spot, with over 32% of its waste escaping formal landfill and recycling channels. In response, Latvia initiated a comprehensive waste management strategy in 2021, aiming to develop infrastructure for goods collection and recycling centers by 2028.

3. Chile: Minimal Recycling Rates and New Regulations

Chile ranks third and is noted for the lowest recycling rate at just 2 kg per capita. Approximately 417 kg of waste per person is sent to landfills, with an additional 33 kg dumped openly. In September 2023, Chile enacted the Extended Producer Responsibility Law, mandating manufacturers to recycle products such as oils, electronics, batteries, packaging, and tires, targeting improved recycling and waste reduction by 2040.

Important Environmental Note

Waste incineration presents a more eco-friendly alternative to landfill disposal. Notably, Switzerland stands out as the only country in 2022 that completely avoids landfilling waste.

4. Mexico: Heavy Reliance on Landfills

Mexico lacks an incineration program, with Mexico City ranking as the world's second-largest waste producer among cities, generating 20,000 tons daily. Unfortunately, all waste is currently relegated to landfills, highlighting an urgent need for diversified waste processing methods.

5. Italy: Investing in Sustainable Waste Solutions

Despite launching the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP) in 2022, allocating 2.10 billion euros towards sustainable waste management and circular economy initiatives, Italy remains the fifth-largest waste producer.

How Does the United States Compare in Waste Management?

According to the 2022 Global Waste Index, the U.S. ranks 25th based on waste generation, recycling, incineration, and landfill use, yet leads globally in per capita waste production.

Obstacles to Effective Recycling

Contamination from mixed recyclable materials significantly hinders recycling efficiency. For example, composite items like a plastic container with an aluminum lid require separation before processing; otherwise, they are often diverted to incineration.

Country with the Lowest Waste Production

Colombia claims the title for lowest waste generation per capita in 2022, producing only 243 kg per person.

Conclusion

The 2022 Global Waste Index underscores the urgent need for improved waste management across the globe. Evaluating 38 countries, it highlights the top waste producers and the importance of adopting comprehensive recycling, incineration, and landfill reduction strategies. Turkey leads in waste production challenges, emphasizing the critical nature of sustainable waste policies worldwide.

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