Global AveragesGlobal Averages

    Global Average Recycling Rate

    Last updated: February 25, 2026

    17%

    %

    The global average recycling rate is approximately 17% of municipal solid waste. Germany leads at 67%, South Korea at 59%, while many developing nations recycle under 5%. Only 9% of all plastic ever produced has been recycled.

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    Historical Trend

    Source: World Bank

    Global Average Recycling Rate by Country

    Country Value (%) ↓Source
    Germany67UBA
    South Korea59ME
    Switzerland53FOEN
    United Kingdom44DEFRA
    United States32EPA
    China30MEE
    Japan20MOE
    India5CPCB
    Nigeria3NBS

    Why This Average Exists

    Recycling rates indicate resource efficiency and environmental stewardship. Low global recycling contributes to landfill overload, ocean pollution, and wasted resources.

    Factors That Affect Global Average Recycling Rate

    • Infrastructure investment
    • Consumer behavior
    • Government mandates
    • Material markets
    • Collection systems
    • Product design

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Methodology & Data Sources

    The data presented on this page is compiled from publicly available datasets published by international organizations including the World Bank, World Health Organization (WHO), International Labour Organization (ILO), United Nations, NASA, and national statistical agencies.

    Global averages are calculated using population-weighted or arithmetic means depending on the metric. Country-level data reflects the most recent available figures, typically from 2024–2024. Where gaps exist, the latest available data point is used.

    All figures are subject to revision as source organizations update their datasets. For the most authoritative data, we encourage consulting the original sources linked in the table above.

    Further Reading