In 2022, all the people in Denmark together, including households and businesses, spent DKK 149 on millions of tons of materials. On average, this corresponds to 25.3 tonnes per capita. In comparison, the average EU citizen used 14.4 tonnes of materials in 2022, which is significantly less than the average Dane. This information comes from an analysis on the circular economy published alongside the Statistical Ten-Year Review 2024. Materials are used for various purposes such as construction, infrastructure, furniture, and food products.
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Danish material consumption has increased by 7 percent from 2012 to 2022. When a large quantity of materials is used, it often results in a significant amount of waste. However, some materials can be recycled, contributing to what is known as the circular economy. This involves using the earth's resources more efficiently by recycling old materials instead of extracting new ones. For example, sorting plastic, glass, metal, and food waste for recycling in separate containers is part of the circular economy. It also encompasses aspects such as product design, the sharing economy, and green investments, according to Sara Svantesson, a specialist consultant at Statistics Denmark.
The Statistical Ten-Year Review 2024 features a special themed article on selected aspects of the circular economy, as well as a comprehensive overview of various social conditions over a ten-year period. Some notable findings include an increase in the number of children in special schools, a significant decrease in cigarette sales, a decline in the total amount of fish landed by Danish fishing vessels, and a substantial increase in overnight stays at Danish accommodations.
Source: www.dst.dk