The recycling rate for municipal solid waste (MSW) has remained close to 30 percent despite many measures taken. In 2015 the computation methods for statistics on MSW were adjusted, and the most recent rate of recycling for MSW in Finland is 41 %. According to the Waste Framework Directive of the European Union the target for the recycling rate of MSW is 50 % and it should be reached by 2020.
In the project Targeted methods for increasing recycling, the most central steering methods for increased recycling and recovery as material were identified. The objective of the current project (KEIKKA 2) is to evaluate the economic impacts and profitability of the steering methods proposed in the previous project.
The considered steering methods are: stricter obligation limits on separate collection of recyclable waste in the waste management regulations, more effective waste advice for households, a weight-based waste management fee system and setting obligation limits concerning separate collection for administrative, service and business activities. The economic impacts caused by these steering methods can be costs from investments, operating or maintenance, administrative costs, changes in employment, or potential savings or business opportunities.
In addition to the economic impacts, the feasibility of the different steering methods is examined. Aspects taken into account in this assessment are the technical feasibility, existing legislation and other restraints, anticipated changes or trends and general acceptability.
Additionally the project examines the underlying factors for high MSW recycling rates in countries that have succeeded in reaching the recycling targets (Sweden, Austria and Wales). Such factors are the political steering methods used, the operational environment, compilation of statistics, definitions and other possible factors centrally affecting the recycling rate.