Plastic Waste Management and Circular Economy in Albania: A Mixed Methods Analysis of Challenges and Opportunities

Abstract

This study draws on a mixed-methods research design to assess plastic waste management challenges and circular economy opportunities in Albania. Qualitative stakeholder interviews and quantitative data on waste management practices illustrate the systemic challenges and policy deficiencies that policymakers must address. This research draws from a comprehensive literature review, followed by stakeholder interviews with government officials, municipal authorities, private recyclers, non-governmental organizations, and workers in the informal sector, providing triangulation and validation of findings. Quantitative data were gathered from national and EC databases, concentrating on waste generation, recycling rates, and landfill volumes within the time frame of 2019 to 2024. The findings confirm that Albania's waste management system has serious shortcomings in infrastructure, public engagement, and in the implementation of policies. Only 30% of municipalities in Albania have recycling programs, and national recycling rates are very poor, increasing from 6% in 2019 to 10% in 2024. The mass generation of waste from plastic consumption per capita increased from 18kg to 20kg annually, corroborating the growing consumption trends. Urban centers (such as Tirana) provide a greater percentage of recycling coverage (~50%) as compared to rural regions (<10%). If Albania increases recycling and lowers plastic to the environment this will not only help the country meet EU environmental responsibilities but also support the overall development of sustainable development, green jobs, and climate resilience.