The contribution of urban domestic waste management to the circular economy: the perspective of six european countries

In line with the European community's goal, each EU Member State should recycle at least 60% of municipal waste or prepare them for reuse. In this chapter, the authors intend to show the waste management strategies implemented in six European countries, namely, Austria, Belgium, Hungary, Latvia, Portugal, and Romania. The methodology used was to analyse reports and publications on the management of urban waste and dialogue with some technicians of the municipalities. This knowledge of what is done in each country allows others to learn from the best and most innovative solutions and reflect on the various waste management forms implemented, according to environmental, economic, and social perspectives. The analysis identifies several challenges to bring up in further research and projects, with the contribution of the different countries and the synergies that might be obtained. The authors intend to promote a decrease in consumption and an increase in reuse, separately collected waste and recycling, contributing to circular economic growth and the sustainability of the planet.