Waste collection, recovery and disposal activities

NACE code 38 encompasses a critical industry responsible for the collection, recovery, and disposal of waste materials. This industry plays a vital role in the broader economy, ensuring the efficient management of resources and the minimization of environmental impact. By collecting, sorting, and processing a wide range of waste streams, the activities under NACE 38 contribute to the circular economy, promoting sustainability and resource conservation.

The main production techniques used in the waste collection, recovery, and disposal industry involve a multi-step process. First, waste is collected from various sources, including households, businesses, and industrial facilities. The collected waste is then transported to specialized facilities, where it undergoes sorting, separation, and processing. Depending on the waste type, different techniques are employed, such as recycling, composting, incineration, or landfilling. Advanced technologies, such as automated sorting systems and waste-to-energy plants, are increasingly being utilized to optimize the efficiency and environmental impact of these operations.

The key inputs required for the waste collection, recovery, and disposal industry include collection vehicles, waste containers, and specialized processing equipment. Additionally, the industry relies on a skilled workforce, including waste collectors, sorting technicians, and plant operators. Significant raw materials, such as recyclable materials (e.g., paper, plastic, metal, glass) and organic waste, are also essential inputs for the industry's various recovery and disposal processes.

The main outputs of the waste collection, recovery, and disposal industry are the processed and recovered materials, such as recycled paper, plastic, metal, and compost. These outputs are then consumed by other industries, such as 17 Manufacturing, 20 Manufacture of chemicals and chemical products, and 01 Crop and animal production, hunting and related service activities. The industry also generates energy through waste-to-energy processes, which can be utilized by the 35 Electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply sector. Additionally, the proper disposal of waste materials helps to mitigate environmental risks and contributes to the overall sustainability of the economy.