Madeira Produced 129,110 Tons of Urban Waste in 2024
Madeira generated a total of 129,110 tons of urban waste in 2024, yet only a small portion was recycled. Just 17,000 tons were diverted from landfill, leaving around 112,000 tons at the Meia Serra waste station. Authorities warn that the island continues to show very low rates of waste separation for recycling.
Recycling Rate Reaches Only 17% Compared to National and European Standards
The selective collection rate for recycling in Madeira between 2023 and 2024 was approximately 17%. This figure falls far below both national and European guidelines, which aim for much higher material recovery. Experts emphasize that more effort is needed to recover valuable materials from urban waste.
Organic Household Waste Recycled at Only 4% of Total Production
Domestic organic waste has been the least successfully recycled stream on the island. Madeira managed to recycle only 4% of the organic waste produced, highlighting a significant gap in the region’s composting and organic recovery programs.
Glass Recycling Achieves 63%, While Paper and Plastic Lag Behind
Glass recycling has performed better than other materials, with around 63% of produced glass being recovered for recycling. In contrast, paper and cardboard are recycled at only 25%, and plastic achieves between 15% and 16% recovery. Officials note that even glass, while comparatively successful, remains below national and EU targets.
Madeira’s 2030 Recycling Target Set at 22%, Far Below Portugal’s 70% Goal
Portugal aims to recycle 70% of all waste by 2030, but Madeira has set a much lower target of just 22% for the same year. Observers warn that the island’s low ambition may hinder its progress in reducing landfill use and improving environmental outcomes.
Source: RTP Madeira
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