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Assessing and exploring (in)efficiency in Portuguese recycling systems using non-parametric methods

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  • Marques, Rui Cunha
  • da Cruz, Nuno Ferreira
  • Carvalho, Pedro

Abstract

The “value of waste” is not a novel concept. It has been acknowledged since the 1970s, at least in the developed world, that managing urban waste efficiently provides value for money. Recycling is a good example of this not just because it might generate additional revenue but also because it avoids disposal costs and negative externalities. This paper measures the efficiency of Portuguese recycling companies. As required by the EU law (the Packaging Waste Directive), recycling systems must fulfil ambitious targets regarding packaging waste, which includes glass, paper/cardboard, plastic, metal and wood packaging (targets are set for each material individually and for the aggregate recycling rate). Taking into account the legal targets, companies strive to achieve higher benefits by optimising the recycled quantities (and the corresponding revenue) while trying to minimise their costs. Applying several non-parametric models to all Portuguese recycling companies, we found significant inefficiencies in their management. The results suggest that the lack of incentives is one of the main reasons for the low performance of the recycling systems.

Suggested Citation

  • Marques, Rui Cunha & da Cruz, Nuno Ferreira & Carvalho, Pedro, 2012. "Assessing and exploring (in)efficiency in Portuguese recycling systems using non-parametric methods," Resources, Conservation & Recycling, Elsevier, vol. 67(C), pages 34-43.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:recore:v:67:y:2012:i:c:p:34-43
    DOI: 10.1016/j.resconrec.2012.07.005
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    1. De Jaeger, Simon & Rogge, Nicky, 2014. "Cost-efficiency in packaging waste management: The case of Belgium," Resources, Conservation & Recycling, Elsevier, vol. 85(C), pages 106-115.
    2. Marques, Rui Cunha & da Cruz, Nuno Ferreira & Simões, Pedro & Faria Ferreira, Sandra & Pereira, Marta Cabral & De Jaeger, Simon, 2014. "Economic viability of packaging waste recycling systems: A comparison between Belgium and Portugal," Resources, Conservation & Recycling, Elsevier, vol. 85(C), pages 22-33.
    3. Pilar Alberca & Laura Parte, 2024. "Environmental commitment, sustainable development, and regional efficiency in waste collection activities," Sustainable Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 32(3), pages 2104-2118, June.
    4. M. Pilar Latorre & Margarita Martinez-Nuñez & Carmen Callao, 2021. "Modelling and analysing the relationship between innovation and the European Regulations on hazardous waste shipments," International Environmental Agreements: Politics, Law and Economics, Springer, vol. 21(4), pages 575-594, December.
    5. María Molinos‐Senante & Alexandros Maziotis & Ramón Sala‐Garrido, 2024. "Estimating the eco‐efficiency of urban waste services towards sustainable waste management," Sustainable Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 32(5), pages 5677-5691, October.
    6. Agovino, Massimiliano & Garofalo, Antonio & Marchesano, Katia & Monteleone, Simona & Musella, Gaetano, 2025. "The role of the institutional supply chain in the transition from the linear to the circular paradigm: The Italian case," Socio-Economic Planning Sciences, Elsevier, vol. 99(C).
    7. Ramos, Tânia Rodrigues Pereira & Gomes, Maria Isabel & Barbosa-Póvoa, Ana Paula, 2014. "Assessing and improving management practices when planning packaging waste collection systems," Resources, Conservation & Recycling, Elsevier, vol. 85(C), pages 116-129.
    8. Ribeiro, M.C.S. & Meira-Castro, A.C. & Silva, F.G. & Santos, J. & Meixedo, J.P. & Fiúza, A. & Dinis, M.L. & Alvim, M.R., 2015. "Re-use assessment of thermoset composite wastes as aggregate and filler replacement for concrete-polymer composite materials: A case study regarding GFRP pultrusion wastes," Resources, Conservation & Recycling, Elsevier, vol. 104(PB), pages 417-426.
    9. Jin-Li Hu & Satoshi Honma & Tzu-Min Chang, 2024. "Recycling Efficiencies in Japan’s Administrative Regions: Findings from Network Data Envelopment Analysis," Circular Economy and Sustainability, Springer, vol. 4(1), pages 1-21, March.
    10. Bian, Yiwen & Yan, Shuai & Xu, Hao, 2014. "Efficiency evaluation for regional urban water use and wastewater decontamination systems in China: A DEA approach," Resources, Conservation & Recycling, Elsevier, vol. 83(C), pages 15-23.
    11. Antonio Massarutto, 2019. "Italian waste in the circular economy: A agenda for industry regulators in Italy," ECONOMIA PUBBLICA, FrancoAngeli Editore, vol. 2019(1), pages 9-48.

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