TL;DR: Repak’s latest report reveals a significant milestone for Ireland’s recycling efforts, with over 1.2 million tonnes of packaging recycled in 2025. This marks a notable year-on-year increase, driven by a collective effort while addressing ongoing challenges in waste management.
Repak has released its annual report, highlighting a considerable leap in Ireland’s recycling efforts. In 2025, more than 1.2 million tonnes of packaging were recovered and recycled, with an additional 60,000 tonnes processed compared to the previous year. This achievement represents the largest year-on-year increase in packaging recycling volumes seen over the past decade, showcasing a promising trajectory for environmental sustainability in the country.
Chief Executive Zoe Kavanagh remarked on the collective impact of various stakeholders, stating, “2025 was a significant year for Repak, with our members delivering the largest increase in recycling volumes seen in the past decade.” The report highlights that commercial recycling alone grew by almost 48,000 tonnes, complemented by a nearly 12,000-tonne increase in household recycling. Notably, paper recycling increased by 17,000 tonnes, while plastic recycling saw a rise of more than 5,000 tonnes. However, aluminium recycling faced a decline, attributed to the recent introduction of the Deposit and Return Scheme for beverage bottles and aluminium cans.
Kavanagh expressed optimism about driving Ireland’s environmental ambitions, stressing that challenges exist, particularly around plastic packaging. She noted, “While significant challenges remain… this performance shows that Ireland can deliver on its environmental ambitions when investment, infrastructure, and policy are aligned.”
Repak’s membership base also grew significantly in 2025, with 138 new members bringing the total to 3,690. This expanding network supports the critical transition to a more sustainable future, especially with the upcoming Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) set to roll out in August. This new regulation aims for ambitious targets, including a 5% reduction in packaging waste by 2030 and mandates that all packaging placed on the EU market be recyclable by 2030.
As we step further into discussions around sustainability, it’s vital to acknowledge the underlying complexities of this transition. While we’re rightfully celebrating greater recycling numbers, there’s a lingering question: Can we genuinely expand our recycling efforts sustainably, or are we merely scratching the surface? The success of such initiatives hinges on whether we can maintain momentum, particularly when economic disparities start to rear their heads.
In a world where eco-consciousness can seem like just another trend, it’s encouraging to see tangible progress. However, we must remain vigilant. After all, the stakes are high. And let’s face it, nobody wants to be the generation known for leaving behind a mountain of plastic waste that future generations must clean up.
Interestingly, did you know that Ireland has set a target of achieving 70% recycling of municipal waste by 2030? A lofty goal, but if recent trends continue, there’s hope we might just hit the target—provided we don’t let complacency creep in. For more insights, visit Irish Examiner.
