Upcoming Trade Shows in Spain for Recycling

Spain’s recycling industry has seen significant advancements in recent years, with increasing waste recovery rates and a growing emphasis on circular economy principles. Between 2021 and 2022, Spain’s recycling sector saw an increase in the production of recycled waste across Spain’s 400 recycling plants, which rose by 2.3% compared to the previous year. Metals, paper, and cardboard dominated the waste stream, accounting for 80% of the total volume recycled—equivalent to 20.3 million tonnes. The sale of these recycled materials generated approximately €5.1 billion in revenue. Metal waste alone constituted over 60% of the total, while paper and cardboard contributed over 20%. The remainder comprised wood, glass, and plastic recycling. Trade activity in the recycling industry saw interesting fluctuations. While waste imports declined significantly in 2022 compared to the previous year, exports grew by 2.5%. In terms of value, imports and exports rose, driven by the continued price growth for recycled materials. Spain's recycling industry consists of around 340 companies operating nearly 400 processing plants. The sector is characterized by a mix of small, specialized firms focusing on single-material recycling and a smaller group of large operators handling multiple waste streams. Looking ahead, stricter waste regulations and heightened recycling targets are expected to shape the industry. Spain's waste management policies are increasingly aligning with European Union directives, promoting higher waste treatment rates. However, with private consumption expected to stagnate, the overall volume of waste generated may not rise significantly in the coming years. Overall, Spain is transitioning away from the traditional linear economic model—characterized by excessive consumption and disposal—toward a circular economy that emphasizes resource efficiency and sustainability. The Spanish government has developed the Spanish Circular Economy Strategy (EEEC). This initiative aligns with UN and EU action plans and seeks to establish a more sustainable production model over the long term.