European Union countries have managed to significantly increase their recycling rates, although progress is slowing down. In 2020, each EU inhabitant produced 4.8 tonnes of waste, but only 38% of it was recycled. Italy leads with 83.2% recycling, while Romania has only 5.2%. Waste management remains a challenge, especially in countries with high waste production such as Germany and France. Mining activity in countries such as Finland and Sweden affects their recycling rates. To improve, further investment in infrastructure and recycling education is required.