The circular economy and waste rules for packaging, batteries and textiles
MEPs will vote on suspending obligations imposed on companies intended to ensure the proper management of their products once discarded and discuss the upcoming Circular Economy Act.
Under current EU waste legislation, producers bringing products to the EU market pay fees that help cover the cost of collecting, sorting, and recycling these products once they become waste (known as extended producer responsibility, or EPR). The rules in place also mandate them to appoint an authorised representative for EPR obligations in each member state where they sell their products. To reduce barriers within the EU single market, the Commission proposed to suspend this authorised representative obligation for legislation impacting batteries, packaging, textiles, footwear, electronics and single-use plastics.
In the position adopted by the Environment Committee, MEPs backed a more targeted suspension that would apply only to EU-based small and micro enterprises (fewer than 50 employees and an annual turnover or balance sheet under €10 million) and until 2035, or until a more comprehensive Circular Economy Act is adopted.
MEPs will debate the legislation on Monday, followed by a vote on Parliament’s position on Tuesday. If adopted, Parliament will be ready for negotiations with member states on the final form of the law.
In a separate debate with Council and Commission on Wednesday, MEPs will outline their priorities for the upcoming Circular Economy Act, to contribute to Europe’s strategic autonomy, boost competitiveness, and make the lives of Europeans more affordable.
Debate: Monday 19 October (EPR suspension); Wednesday 21 October (Circular Economy Act)
Vote: Tuesday 20 October (EPR suspension)
Procedure: ordinary legislative procedure, first reading (EPR suspension); Council and Commission statements without resolution (Circular Economy Act)