The recycling rate of plastic packaging in Finland has improved in recent years, but challenges remain. While households are increasingly active in sorting waste, Finland’s recycling rate is still only about 30%—far from the EU’s 50% target for 2025.
This is a challenge that Mika Surakka, CEO of Sumi Oy, is ready to tackle. He believes a new era in plastic packaging recycling is just around the corner. “Raising the recycling rate is not just an environmental issue; it’s also an economic opportunity. As domestic sorting capacity develops, we are getting closer to meeting the EU targets—and achieving more self-sufficient recycling,” Surakka emphasizes.
Domestic Capacity Supporting Recycling
The planned Sumi Sorting facility in Riihimäki represents a tangible step in this new direction. Surakka believes that modern technology and efficient processes can revolutionize recycling in Finland. “The Sumi Sorting plant will process over 50,000 tons of plastic packaging annually, with the capacity to double if needed. This means we can handle all plastic packaging waste generated in Finland within a domestic system.”
The importance of domestic solutions is also financial. In 2021, Finland paid €93.9 million to the EU in so-called plastic levies for unprocessed plastic packaging waste. “It’s clear that investments in domestic recycling will pay for themselves. Once we reach a 50% recycling rate, these payments will decrease,” Surakka explains.
Consumers and Technology: Keys to Growth in Recycling
According to Surakka, the next step is improving sorting efficiency. Consumer activity is crucial, and technology must support these efforts. “Every correctly sorted ground meat tray or shredded cheese pouch is a step towards a higher recycling rate. Through collaboration, we can raise the collection rate from the current 45% to as much as 57% or beyond, which is critical for meeting our targets.”
While Sumi plays a significant role in advancing recycling, Surakka emphasizes the importance of industry-wide cooperation: “It’s great to see that many stakeholders have recognized the situation and are taking concrete actions. This demonstrates that the industry is ready for change—and that recycling is no longer just an option, but a necessity for building a more sustainable future.”
Sumi estimates that sorting of non-deposit plastic packaging will improve significantly with the Riihimäki facility, making it possible to reach the EU’s recycling target as early as 2027.
Achieving the Goal – Together
Surakka sees raising Finland’s recycling rate as a team effort. Improving sorting and increasing consumer awareness are key actions on the path to success. “We already have a separate collection system and advanced technologies in place. The most important thing is for all parties to commit to this shared goal. This is not just an issue for industry or consumers, but for society as a whole.”
Sumi’s calculations show that the Sumi Sorting plant and other new measures will enable Finland to achieve the EU’s 50% recycling target by 2027. “This goal is not a utopia but entirely realistic, provided we maintain our commitment and collaboration. Recycling is not just a solution to environmental challenges but also part of modern business practices.”
Surakka underscores that achieving the EU recycling targets is entirely possible if sufficient resources and proper prioritization are dedicated to the effort: “Enhancing plastic recycling benefits both the environment and the economy. It’s time to shift gears and make Finland a leader in recycling.”