Waste management companies in France are essential players in maintaining environmental health and sustainability. This industry comprises various types of organizations—from large, privately-equity owned firms to smaller family-run businesses—offering services that range from waste collection and sorting to recycling and valorization. France's waste management sector is increasingly focused on innovation, particularly in recycling technologies and the circular economy. As environmental regulations tighten and public awareness grows, companies are not only expected to manage waste effectively but also to contribute towards resource recovery and sustainable practices. Insights reveal a shift towards integrating technology for better efficiency and transparency in operations.

The companies in this list showcase a mix of larger corporations and smaller entities, with workforce sizes ranging from as few as 11 to over 16,000 employees. Many are headquartered in regions like Île-De-France and Hauts-De-France, with founding years stretching from 1904 to 2024. Each company specializes in distinct areas within waste management, including recycling, treatment of hazardous waste, and eco-friendly waste solutions. Their collective operations cover various municipalities, serving both local communities and businesses. With a commitment to enhancing waste practices, these companies reflect the evolving needs of a sustainable future in waste management.

Continue reading to discover more about France's top waste management companies.

Top 24 Waste Management Companies in France

1. Paprec

• Website: paprec.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
• Employee distribution: France 97%, Other 3%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), $217.5M, July 2024
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 10001+
• LinkedIn: paprec

Paprec is a prominent waste management and recycling company based in Paris, Île-De-France, France. Established in 1994, the company specializes in providing comprehensive solutions for waste collection, sorting, and valorization. Paprec serves a wide range of clients, including businesses and local communities, helping them manage waste sustainably and convert it into reusable materials. The company emphasizes environmental responsibility and innovation in recycling practices, aiming to transform waste into valuable resources. With a workforce of over 16,000 employees, Paprec has a significant operational footprint in France, where it handles a substantial volume of waste. In July 2024, the company secured a funding amount of approximately 217 million euros, reflecting its ongoing growth and commitment to enhancing its services in the waste management sector.

2. Sepur

• Website: sepur.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Thiverval-Grignon, Île-De-France, France
• Employee distribution: France 100%
• Latest funding: $155.7M, May 2012
• Founded year: 1965
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: sepur

Sepur, founded in 1965 and based in Thiverval-Grignon, Île-De-France, is a private equity-owned waste management company specializing in waste collection, sorting, and recycling services. The company serves local authorities and businesses, providing customized solutions to enhance waste management efficiency while promoting environmental sustainability. With a workforce of approximately 3,000 employees, Sepur operates across multiple regions in France, serving nearly 10 million inhabitants. Their operations include the collection of various waste types, urban cleanliness, and the management of recycling centers. Sepur is committed to ecological transition, social responsibility, and innovation, with a focus on reducing environmental impact and maximizing resource recovery. In 2023, the company reported a revenue of over 370 million euros, reflecting its significant role in the waste management industry.

3. Baudelet Environnement

• Website: baudelet-environnement.fr
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Blaringhem, Hauts-De-France, France
• Employee distribution: France 100%
• Founded year: 1964
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: baudelet-environnement

Baudelet Environnement, based in Blaringhem, Hauts-De-France, is a private waste management company that has been operational since 1964. With a workforce of around 501 to 1000 employees, the company specializes in the recycling and valorization of waste. They provide a range of services including waste audits, the development of eco-products, and the purchasing of metals, catering to businesses, consumers, and local authorities. Baudelet Environnement is dedicated to helping clients manage their waste sustainably while ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Their commitment to innovation is evident in their focus on creating eco-products from waste materials, which not only reduces environmental impact but also promotes the circular economy. The company operates several eco-sites and is involved in various initiatives aimed at enhancing waste management practices in the region.

4. Groupe NICOLLIN

• Website: groupenicollin.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Saint-Fons, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
• Employee distribution: France 97%, Other 3%
• Founded year: 1945
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: groupe-nicollin

Groupe NICOLLIN, based in Saint-Fons, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France, is a private company that specializes in waste management and environmental services. Established in 1945, it has grown to employ between 5,001 and 10,000 individuals, with a significant majority of its workforce based in France. The company provides a wide array of services, including the collection of household waste, urban cleanliness, and the management of waste from economic activities. It also operates waste sorting and recycling centers, ensuring that waste is not only disposed of but also valorized. Groupe NICOLLIN caters to both businesses and local authorities, emphasizing customized solutions to meet specific client needs. The company is recognized as an independent and family-owned entity in the waste management sector, which allows it to maintain a personal touch in its operations while adhering to high standards of environmental responsibility.

5. Esterra

• Website: esterra.fr
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Lezennes, Hauts-De-France, France
• Employee distribution: France 100%
• Latest funding: August 2014
• Founded year: 1904
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: esterra

Esterra, based in Lezennes, Hauts-De-France, is a waste management company that has been serving the community since its founding in 1904. With a workforce of approximately 277 employees, Esterra specializes in comprehensive waste collection and processing services for households, businesses, and local authorities. The company operates a variety of services, including the collection of household waste, mobile and fixed recycling centers, and urban cleanliness initiatives. Esterra is particularly focused on sustainability, offering tailored solutions that address the challenges of waste management in urban settings. Their commitment to innovation is evident in their recent initiatives, such as the decarbonation of waste collection services in the Lille metropolitan area. This approach not only enhances their operational efficiency but also aligns with broader environmental goals. Esterra's extensive experience and local engagement position them as a significant player in the waste management sector in the Hauts-de-France region.

6. Epur

• Website: epur.fr
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: France
• Employee distribution: France 86%, United States (USA) 14%
• Founded year: 1950
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: epur

Epur is a private waste management company based in France, founded in 1950. With a workforce of approximately 43 employees, the company has established itself as a significant player in the waste management industry. Epur specializes in the collection, treatment, and recycling of various waste materials, serving a broad clientele that includes local authorities, industrial clients, and private individuals. Their operations are centered around sustainability, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations while providing comprehensive waste management solutions. Epur operates multiple facilities across France, focusing on logistics, waste valorization, and container rentals. The company is also involved in the eco-organism sector, managing various waste streams under the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework. With a commitment to innovation and a strong operational footprint, Epur plays a vital role in the circular economy.

7. Arc En Ciel Recyclage

• Website: arcencielrecyclage.fr
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Izeaux, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
• Employee distribution: France 100%
• Founded year: 1936
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: arcencielrecyclage

Arc En Ciel Recyclage, established in 1936, is a family-owned waste management and recycling company based in Izeaux, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France. With a workforce of approximately 73 employees, the company specializes in the collection, recycling, and treatment of both hazardous and non-hazardous waste. They serve a broad clientele, including businesses, individuals, and local communities, providing tailored solutions for efficient waste management. Their services include the rental of waste containers, professional waste disposal, and the purchase of scrap metals and batteries. The company is also involved in eco-responsible construction projects, emphasizing sustainability and the circular economy. With a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, Arc En Ciel Recyclage has developed a reputation for reliability and quality service in the waste management industry.

8. Passenaud

• Website: passenaud.fr
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Champagne, Grand Est, France
• Employee distribution: France 100%
• Founded year: 1907
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: passenaud

Passenaud is a family-owned waste management company based in Champagne, Grand Est, France, with a history dating back to 1907. The company specializes in the collection, treatment, and recycling of a wide range of waste types, including wood, paper, metals, plastics, and hazardous materials. With a workforce of approximately 240 employees, Passenaud operates multiple facilities across various regions in France, ensuring efficient waste disposal and recycling services. The company emphasizes sustainability and adheres to strict environmental regulations, providing tailored waste management solutions to businesses and organizations. Their commitment to innovation and continuous improvement in waste processing techniques positions them as a significant player in the waste management sector.

9. Ourry

• Website: ourry.fr
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Champdeuil, Île-De-France, France
• Employee distribution: France 100%
• Founded year: 1980
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: ourry

Ourry, founded in 1980 and based in Champdeuil, Île-De-France, is a private waste management company that specializes in a wide range of services including waste collection, recycling, and urban cleanliness. With a workforce of approximately 400 employees, Ourry operates across various regions in France, providing tailored waste management solutions to local communities and industries. The company is committed to environmental compliance and employs innovative technologies to improve its operations. Ourry's services include the collection of household and industrial waste, management of recycling centers, and urban cleanliness initiatives. The company has also made significant investments in enhancing its fleet and operational capabilities, ensuring it meets the evolving demands of waste management and sustainability. Ourry's focus on reducing emissions and promoting recycling aligns with broader environmental goals, making it a relevant player in the waste management sector.

10. GUYOT environnement

• Website: guyotenvironnement.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Brest, Brittany, France
• Employee distribution: France 99%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: guyot-environnement-sa

GUYOT environnement, based in Brest, Brittany, France, is a family-owned waste management company that has been operational since 1983. With a workforce of around 530 employees, the company specializes in waste collection, sorting, and valorization. They cater to a variety of clients, including businesses in construction and agriculture, local authorities, and individual consumers. GUYOT environnement is dedicated to transforming waste into new materials and energy, thereby contributing to a circular economy and promoting environmental sustainability. The company has developed a robust operational framework that includes the collection and treatment of various waste types, including hazardous materials and electronic waste. Their recent investments in modern facilities demonstrate a commitment to innovation and efficiency in waste management practices. GUYOT environnement's strategic focus on creating a value chain from waste aligns with contemporary environmental goals, making them a notable player in the waste management sector.

11. Groupe Vacher

• Website: groupevacher.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Polignac, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
• Employee distribution: France 100%
• Founded year: 1990
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: srv-vacher

Groupe Vacher, based in Polignac, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France, is a private waste management company that has been operational since 1990. With a workforce of approximately 24 employees, the company specializes in the sorting and recovery of waste, catering to both local communities and businesses. Their service offerings include efficient waste collection, recycling solutions, consulting, site rehabilitation, and industrial transformation services. Groupe Vacher is dedicated to minimizing environmental impact and enhancing sustainability practices. They are also a member of the Praxy network, which further emphasizes their commitment to collaboration and innovation in waste management. The company has achieved ISO 14001 certification, reflecting their proactive approach to managing environmental responsibilities and improving their operational practices.

12. Groupe Rds - Recyclage Dechets Services

• Website: groupe-rds.fr
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: France
• Employee distribution: France 100%
• Founded year: 1989
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: recyclages-dechets-services-groupe-rds

Groupe Rds - Recyclage Dechets Services, established in 1989, is a private waste management company based in France. With a workforce of approximately 501-1000 employees, the company specializes in the collection, treatment, and recycling of various waste materials. It provides tailored services to businesses, communities, and individuals, emphasizing sustainable waste solutions and efficient recycling practices. The company operates multiple recycling centers across regions such as Rhône, Loire, and Drôme-Ardèche-Isère, ensuring proximity to clients and minimizing environmental impact through reduced transportation distances. RDS Groupe is particularly active in the construction and industrial sectors, offering innovative recycling and valorization solutions. Their operations include the management of a wide array of materials, from plastics and metals to organic waste, demonstrating their comprehensive approach to waste management. RDS Groupe is committed to regulatory compliance and aims to optimize waste management processes for cost efficiency and environmental sustainability.

13. Praxy

• Website: praxy.fr
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Pierrefitte-Sur-Sauldre, Centre-Val De Loire, France
• Employee distribution: France 100%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: praxy

Praxy, based in Pierrefitte-Sur-Sauldre, France, is a family-owned waste management and recycling company that has been operational since 1999. The company specializes in providing comprehensive waste management services tailored to industries, administrations, and construction professionals. Praxy's offerings include waste collection, logistics, sorting, recycling, and valorization of waste materials. They emphasize compliance with environmental regulations and work to enhance their clients' sustainability initiatives. With a fleet of over 1,000 vehicles and a network of 90 processing platforms, Praxy handles more than 5 million tons of waste annually. Their services are designed to meet the specific needs of various sectors, including industrial, tertiary, automotive, and construction, showcasing their adaptability and commitment to environmental stewardship.

14. Ecodrop

• Website: ecodrop.net
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Saint-Cloud, Île-De-France, France
• Employee distribution: France 100%
• Latest funding: June 2024
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: ecodrop

Ecodrop, established in 2016 and based in Saint-Cloud, Île-De-France, is a waste management company focused on providing efficient and eco-friendly solutions for the collection and disposal of construction and hazardous waste. The company serves both businesses and individual consumers, offering a range of services that include waste collection using vans, bin rentals, and specialized services for hazardous materials. Ecodrop emphasizes compliance with environmental standards and promotes recycling through partnerships with local waste facilities. Their digital platform enhances the user experience, allowing for quick service requests and efficient waste tracking. Ecodrop has also been recognized for its commitment to the circular economy, having won awards such as the "Concours d’innovation" by ADEME in 2018 and the GreenTech Verte award in 2020. With a workforce of around 49 employees, Ecodrop is dedicated to improving waste management practices in France.

15. Excoffier Recyclage

• Website: excoffier-recyclage.fr
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Groisy, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
• Employee distribution: France 100%
• Founded year: 1971
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: excoffier-recyclage

Excoffier Recyclage, based in Groisy, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France, is a private waste management company established in 1971. With a workforce of approximately 400 employees, the company specializes in the collection, sorting, and recycling of waste materials. They offer tailored solutions for various clients, including businesses, communities, and individuals, emphasizing environmental sustainability through effective waste valorization. Excoffier Recyclage operates 15 sites across Savoie and Haute-Savoie, positioning itself as a significant player in the local waste management sector. The company is committed to continuous improvement and has implemented a quality management system focused on customer satisfaction and environmental performance. They are certified under ISO 14001 and actively participate in the recycling federation (FEDEREC), reflecting their dedication to responsible waste management practices. Additionally, Excoffier Recyclage supports the Excoffier Alpine Team, contributing to the development of young skiing talents in France, showcasing their community involvement and commitment to social responsibility.

16. Aktid

• Website: aktid.fr
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chambéry, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
• Employee distribution: France 90%, Italy 10%
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: aktid

Aktid, founded in 1995 and based in Chambéry, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France, is a private company with a workforce of approximately 163 employees. The firm specializes in creating and implementing waste sorting and valorization installations, addressing a wide range of solid waste types. Their clientele includes independent operators, large corporations, and local authorities, showcasing their adaptability and expertise in the field. Aktid has successfully completed around 150 installations since its inception, establishing itself as a reference point in France for waste sorting centers. The company emphasizes innovation, offering smart solutions and modernizing existing sorting facilities to improve efficiency and recycling rates. Their commitment to optimizing waste management processes is evident in their comprehensive service offerings, which include maintenance, training, and performance optimization for waste sorting installations.

17. Groupe Chimirec

• Website: chimirec.fr
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Aulnay-Sous-Bois, Île-De-France, France
• Employee distribution: France 95%, Other 5%
• Founded year: 1958
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: groupe-chimirec

Groupe Chimirec, based in Aulnay-Sous-Bois, Île-De-France, is a private waste management company that has been operational since 1958. The firm specializes in the collection, treatment, and valorization of industrial waste, catering primarily to businesses in sectors such as automotive and construction. With a workforce of approximately 407 employees, the company emphasizes compliance with environmental regulations and strives to provide efficient waste management solutions. Their services include waste collection, selective sorting, and comprehensive waste management strategies, which are designed to meet the specific needs of their clients. Chimirec also engages in the treatment of various types of waste, including hazardous materials, ensuring that they are processed in an environmentally responsible manner. The company has expanded its operations over the years, reinforcing its presence in the French market and demonstrating a commitment to sustainable practices.

18. Sphere-theaud

• Website: sphere-theaud.fr
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Saint-Méen-Le-Grand, Brittany, France
• Employee distribution: France 100%
• Founded year: 1974
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: sphere-theaud

Sphere Theaud, based in Saint-Méen-Le-Grand, Brittany, France, is a private waste management company that has been operational since 1974. With a workforce of approximately 59 employees, the company specializes in a wide range of waste management services, including waste collection, sorting, and recycling. They serve a variety of clients, including local authorities, industrial sectors, and event organizers, ensuring effective waste disposal and cleanliness across their operational regions. Sphere Theaud is particularly focused on environmental sustainability, employing efficient waste management practices that contribute to the circular economy. Their operations extend across Brittany, Normandy, and Pays de la Loire, where they manage significant volumes of waste annually. The company is also certified in Quality, Safety, and Environment (QSE), underscoring their commitment to maintaining high operational standards and reducing environmental impact.

19. Groupe Sclavo Environnement

• Website: groupesclavo.fr
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Nice, Provence-Alpes-Côte D'Azur, France
• Employee distribution: France 100%
• Founded year: 1918
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: groupe-sclavo-environnement

Groupe Sclavo Environnement, founded in 1918, is a family-owned waste management company based in Nice, Provence-Alpes-Côte D'Azur, France. With a workforce of 51-200 employees, the company specializes in comprehensive waste management solutions, including the collection, treatment, and recycling of both hazardous and non-hazardous waste. They serve a variety of clients, including businesses in the construction sector, industries, public administrations, and individual consumers. The company operates multiple sites across the Var and Alpes-Maritimes regions, ensuring efficient service delivery and compliance with environmental regulations. Sclavo Environnement is dedicated to achieving 100% waste valorization, actively seeking innovative solutions to enhance recycling and waste treatment processes. Their commitment to sustainability and local engagement is evident in their operations and community initiatives.

20. SLR Environnement

• Website: slr-environnement.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Fontaines-Sur-Saône, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
• Employee distribution: France 100%
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: slr-environnement

SLR Environnement, founded in 2006 and based in Fontaines-Sur-Saône, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France, is a private waste management company with a workforce of 21 employees. The company specializes in the treatment and recycling of various waste types, providing essential services to businesses and local communities. With a history that spans over 40 years, SLR Environnement has developed a robust understanding of the waste management industry, focusing on sustainability and adherence to environmental regulations. They offer a comprehensive range of services, including waste collection, sorting, and recycling, tailored to meet the specific needs of their clients. Their commitment to environmental stewardship is further demonstrated by their ISO 14001 certification, which underscores their dedication to effective environmental management practices. SLR Environnement operates primarily in the Lyon area, serving a diverse clientele and maintaining a strong regional presence.

21. Trait D'union

• Website: trait-union.net
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: La Roche-Sur-Yon, Pays De La Loire, France
• Employee distribution: France 100%
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: trait-union

Trait D'union, founded in 1995 and based in La Roche-Sur-Yon, Pays De La Loire, France, is a private waste management company specializing in the collection, treatment, and recycling of waste. With a workforce of around 23 employees, the company serves a variety of clients, including local authorities, businesses, and individuals, providing tailored waste disposal solutions. Their operations span across the Grand Ouest region of France, where they manage multiple services such as the exploitation of waste collection sites, management of sorting cabins, and the collection of organic waste. Trait D'union is committed to promoting environmental sustainability and actively engages in community education about recycling. They have established a network of partnerships to enhance their service offerings and ensure compliance with local waste management regulations.

22. Sede Environnement

• Website: sede.veolia.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Arras, Hauts-De-France, France
• Founded year: 1979
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: sede-environnement

Sede Environnement, based in Arras, Hauts-De-France, France, is a private environmental services company that has been operational since 1979. With a workforce of approximately 385 employees, Sede Environnement is part of the Veolia Group, a global leader in environmental services. The company specializes in waste management, water treatment, and energy solutions, catering to municipalities, industrial clients, and agricultural businesses. Sede Environnement offers a variety of services, including waste valorization, liquid waste treatment, and agricultural solutions, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and adherence to environmental regulations. The company is recognized for its innovative approaches to waste management, including the treatment of non-conforming sludge and the promotion of agricultural valorization. Sede Environnement actively engages in the circular economy, providing tailored solutions that enhance resource recovery and minimize waste.

23. Astradec

• Website: astradec.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
• Employee distribution: France 100%
• Latest funding: June 2019
• Founded year: 1988
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: astradec

Astradec Environnement, founded in 1988 and based in Paris, Île-De-France, is a private equity-owned waste management company with a workforce of approximately 22 employees. The company specializes in the collection, treatment, and recycling of various waste types, catering to businesses, local communities, and individual clients. Astradec operates multiple sites across France, emphasizing environmental sustainability and adherence to waste management regulations. Their services include the collection and sorting of hazardous and non-hazardous waste, as well as solutions for organic waste and site depollution. With a strong belief that every waste item can be transformed into a resource, Astradec is dedicated to providing tailored waste disposal and valorization solutions, contributing to a more sustainable future.

24. Ecodas

• Website: ecodas.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Roubaix, Hauts-De-France, France
• Employee distribution: France 100%
• Founded year: 1993
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: ecodas

Ecodas, founded in 1993 and based in Roubaix, Hauts-De-France, France, is a private company that specializes in the treatment of infectious and medical waste, as well as animal waste. With a workforce of 11 to 50 employees, Ecodas has carved out a niche in the waste management sector by providing innovative solutions tailored to healthcare institutions, seaports, and airports. Their product line includes various waste treatment machines designed to ensure compliance with stringent health regulations and environmental safety standards. Ecodas has established a global presence, operating in over 90 countries and collaborating with a network of 100 distributors. Their systems are designed to process a range of waste types, including biomedical and liquid effluents, while also addressing the destruction of confidential documents. The company emphasizes ecological and economical solutions, showcasing their commitment to sustainability in waste management.

Waste Management Insights: Key Companies in France

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