Briefing - Waste framework directive: A more sustainable use of natural resources - 29-05-2024
Every year, 60 million tonnes of food waste and 12.6 million tonnes of textile waste are generated in the EU. On 5 July 2023, the European Commission tabled a proposal for a targeted revision of EU waste rules. Aimed at accelerating the EU's progress towards United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12.3 (halving food waste at the retail and consumer level by 2030), the proposal would mean EU countries would have to reduce food waste by 10 % in processing and manufacturing, and by 30 % per capita, jointly at retail and consumption level, by 2030. The proposal also introduces extended producer responsibility requirements for the textile sector. These schemes would have to cover the costs of collecting textiles, shoes and textile-related products for re-use or recycling, along with transport and sorting, while also supporting research and development to improve sorting and recycling processes. The European Parliament adopted its first-reading position on 13 March 2024, with 514 votes in favour, 20 against and 91 abstentions. Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) confirmed the higher binding waste reduction targets proposed by ENVI – from 10 % to 20 % in food processing and manufacturing, and from 30 % to 40 % per capita in retail, catering, food services and households – to be met at national level by 31 December 2030. However, this vote came too late to complete negotiations with the Council ahead of the European elections in June. It will therefore be for MEPs in the new Parliament to negotiate the final shape of the future legislation. Second edition. The 'EU Legislation in Progress' briefings are updated at key stages throughout the legislative procedure.
Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP