Ceramics, omnipresent in our daily lives, from tableware to construction materials, often slips under the radar when discussing recycling. With over 1.2 million tons used every year in building materials and hundreds of thousands of tons more in various domestic and industrial uses, this material has significant potential for recovery. However, France still struggles to structure a recycling chain dedicated to this precious resource, which all too often ends up as fill, thus losing its added value. Several eco-organizations are trying to turn the tide, promoting the collection and differentiated recovery of these materials with exceptional properties.
In France, ceramics are widely used in various sectors such as dinnerware, sanitary ware, and garden articles, yet its recycling remains insufficient. Often considered mere fill, ceramics have a high added value and could benefit from new outlets. Until mid-2025, four eco-organizations are collaborating to establish collection schemes and explore these opportunities. Despite its notable absence from current recycling channels, ceramics could be reused more sustainably due to its inert nature and binding power. To encourage this transformation, experiments are planned in three French recycling centers, aimed at better understanding its recyclability and stimulating innovation.
potential for recovery of ceramic waste
Despite its numerous applications ranging from dinnerware to sanitary ware to garden articles, ceramics are still significantly underutilized in terms of recycling in France. Often relegated to simple fill at the end of life, ceramics nevertheless have a significant added value. By mid-2025, four eco-organizations seek to change this dynamic by developing innovative collection schemes and exploring new outlets.
challenges and opportunities for recycling in France
For several years, various recycling initiatives have emerged, but surprisingly, ceramics remain an exception. The challenge is substantial, but the interest lies in the possibility of processing these materials beyond the inert materials market. A pilot project, conducted in various waste collection centers in France, from Charente-Maritime to Seine-Saint-Denis, will attempt to revitalize this sector. These efforts are supported by the Ceramic Technology Transfer Center of Limoges.
Ceramic products, such as garden pots and tiles, currently end up in the stream of inert materials. However, this completely inert material offers exceptional binding and draining power. Beyond simple reuse, companies are already testing innovative projects that transform this waste into new technologies, such as 3D printing from recycled ceramics.
European innovations and integration perspectives
In the face of these challenges, some companies are taking a lead, such as Cycle Up, which opts for the refurbishment of sanitary equipment. This innovative approach in Seine-Saint-Denis could redefine industry standards. In collaboration with the European Ceramic Center, a future may be envisaged where ceramics have a complete and efficient recycling chain.
Although plastic recycling is prioritized, ceramics hold equally exciting prospects. With an annual yield of over 1.2 million tons for building materials alone, the potential for recovery is immense. Future perspectives are taking shape, particularly with projects aimed at incorporating these materials into new industrial processes, thus integrating the circular economy.
