The EU is preparing a circular economy. Do you have something to say? The deadline is 6 November

How to reduce waste, save raw materials and at the same time strengthen the economy? The European Union (EU) is seeking the answer in the upcoming Circular Economy Act (CEA). This document is to bring practical solutions that will help both industry and the environment – and now is the time to get involved in its creation.

From 1 August to 6 November, citizens, companies and organisations have the opportunity to submit their comments on the CEA – legislation, which is to accelerate the transition to a circular economy. The goal is to create a single market for waste and secondary raw materials, strengthen the competitiveness of industry and reduce the EU's dependence on the import of critical raw materials.

Two main pillars of the upcoming document

Electronic waste (electronic and electrical equipment) is among the fastest-growing waste streams – it rises by 2 % annually. Less than 40 % of it is recycled. The goal is therefore to ensure its efficient collection and recycling and at the same time to create market demand for the secondary critical raw materials that it contains.

Support for a single market for waste, secondary raw materials and their use in products – a combination of several measures is being considered. From a reform of the criteria for end-of-waste status, through simplification, digitalisation and the expansion of extended producer responsibility systems, to the setting of mandatory, targeted, effective and implementable criteria for public procurement of „circular“ goods, services and works. The goal is to stimulate demand for these solutions throughout the EU.

Get involved in the preparation of the document

We would be glad if you – our members – also got involved in the creation. You can send your comments on the upcoming document to the address kallova@apzd.sk.

SOURCE: APZD