​Waste production is increasing exponentially and posing disruptive threats to human health and to the environment. This works analyses waste production at several levels, and discusses the challenges related to waste management. In order to evaluate the performance of the Azorean waste management system during the first three years of PEGRA, data on waste production and management, from 2008 and 2010, belonging to the Report on the State of the Azores Environment (2008-2010), were compared. This analysis, although very simplified, was able to provide some tendencies onthe actual waste management system and its evolution. Finally, a new approach to waste management in the Azores ​is discussed, based on life cycle, eco-efficiency and waste valorization, in primary or secondary functions.