Andorra Exports 37K Tonnes of Waste in 2024, Down 2.3%

Andorra exported 36,963 tonnes of waste in 2024, a 2.3% decrease from the previous year that aligns with recent averages and signals stable management of materials requiring off-site treatment, according to the Environment, Agriculture and Livestock Ministry's annual report.

The largest portion—23,032 tonnes—consisted of slag and rejects from the Comella Waste Treatment Centre (CTR), down 3.3% on 2023 figures. These are sent to specialist handlers in Catalonia. Operational since 1999, the CTR processes the residual fraction of household waste through energy recovery, but the resulting slag must be exported for final disposal.

Sewage sludge from wastewater treatment plants totalled 6,850 tonnes, remaining steady year-on-year and typical within sanitation cycles. Other notable categories included bulky waste (1,722 tonnes), out-of-use tyres (405 tonnes), scrap metal (529 tonnes), plus fluorescents, batteries and oils needing specialised processing beyond Andorra's borders.

Electrical and electronic waste (RAEE) exports held at 287 tonnes, a consistent level in recent years that draws scrutiny due to its potential hazards and recyclable material value. Additional shipments covered 38 end-of-life vehicles and 38 tonnes of hazardous healthcare waste, managed with the Andorran Health Care Service (SAAS).

Exports relied on 43 authorised carriers, with destinations mainly in Catalonia and southern France. All handlers comply with European standards on waste treatment and traceability. The ministry stressed the value of longstanding agreements with external facilities, given Andorra's limited infrastructure for certain recovery or disposal processes.

Despite population and economic growth, overall volumes stabilised, reflecting efficient oversight. Officials credited boosted selective collection and source separation for curbing non-recyclable fractions. The policy prioritises environmental impact reduction, circular economy principles and full traceability of exported flows, with the annual balance aiding future sustainability strategies.