New steps to boost Albania’s glass recycling

Albania has joined the European Close the Glass Loop platform to strengthen glass packaging collection and recycling systems while looking to meet EU environmental standards.

The launch represents an important step in Albania’s transition towards a more circular economy, supporting the country’s EU accession ambitions. The country is well on the way to become full EU member by 2030.

Going circular

‘Our accession path to the EU requires strong alignment with European environmental standards,’ says Albania’s deputy minister of environment Sofjan Jaupaj. ‘Launching this national platform with Close the Glass Loop is a concrete step towards improving glass packaging collection, boosting recycling performance, and building the partnerships needed for a more circular economy.’

The new national platform will develop a dedicated action plan for glass packaging collection and recycling, drawing on successful European experiences, including decades of investment in infrastructure, policy development and public awareness campaigns.

Endlessly recyclable

The platform will be coordinated by Albania’s recycling company Green Recycling. ‘We are proud to be part of the Close the Glass Loop community and to help build a stronger, more collaborative approach to glass collection and recycling,’ says md Arbër Xhihani.

‘Glass is an endlessly recyclable material and yet it is one of the least recovered in Albania. We look forward to working with partners across Albania and Europe to turn shared expertise into real progress for a more circular future.’

Best practice

The launch builds on Albania’s recent progress in glass recycling infrastructure. In 2025, the country opened its first dedicated glass recycling line in Bubq, north of the capital Tirana.

Funded by the EU and Albanian partners, the facility has the capacity to process up to 36 000 tonnes of glass per year, creating partnerships with producers, distributors, hotels, restaurants and bars.