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In Albania, the first glass recycling line was presented, which represents a significant step towards the sustainable management of approximately 42,000 tons of glass waste per year.
“Albania Glass Recycling” in Bubq, Krujë is the first glass recycling company in Albania, which represents a new step towards a circular economy.
The recycling line was realized thanks to the support of the European Union through the EU4CELC program, with the support of GIZ Albania and BMZ, RecycAl – Circular Economy Park.
Built by Albanian engineers, the line processes up to 36,000 tons/year, creating partnerships with manufacturers, distributors, and HORECA businesses to turn glass from landfill into a source of value.
This process will yield two sustainable products: VetroPool – recycled glass sand for water filtration in swimming pools; Terrazo glass – decorative material for tiles, interior design, and urban furniture.
The European Union delegation in Tirana notes that this is a concrete example of the circular economy in action and of the EU-Albania partnership for a greener future.
At the presentation of this first initiative of its kind in Albania, the Albanian Minister of Environment, Sofjan Jaupaj, was also present, who described this company as a clear example of cooperation between the government, the private sector, and international partners.
“This company will bring concrete results for a greener economy and by reducing the volume of waste. During this month, we have had a series of inaugurations in other cities regarding waste collection and recycling stations, where a good portion of waste is recycled and returned to the market, thus reducing the amount of waste in the country’s territory, as well as the waste that ends up in landfills,” emphasized Jaupaj.
According to Minister Jaupaj, the approval in the Assembly of the new law “On waste management” brings a new approach, but also conforms to EU legislation, where collection and recycling are at its core.
Currently, recycling rates are still at 18%. The Albanian market, with 870,000 tons of waste produced annually, is an important market for recyclers.
Albania has opened 5 out of 6 negotiation chapters with the European Union and expects to open the last one within the year, where the environment and food safety chapter remains among the most important. (November 10)