perspective. In this perspective, recycled content is considered a booster. Recent experience shows
that SUP objectives and binding rules for PET bottles safeguard the stream. Deposit Refund Scheme
(DRS) is another driver (see the example of LT).
The example of Eucert Plast is given as exemplary for transparency on safety, quality, volumes,
which allows investments, but traceability remains a challenge
Several best practices are being developed, and they could be replicated. In particular, building on
the GHG emissions reduction potential by recycling, measuring and targeting carbon footprint of the
products are key driver for uptake.
Commissioner
recalls the measures put forward by the EC to address the issues that
arose at the beginning of the COVID pandemic: guidelines, green lanes, recovery plan (recycling
being a priority sectors considering that there is a 10 billion euros investment gap). Work with MS is
therefore necessary to reap the funding opportunities (MS authorities to provide blueprint for
investment needs)
Concerning policy development at EU level, the EC is preparing a regulatory framework and ensuring
the effective implementation of the waste package along 5 major axes :
- Essential Requirements (ER) for packaging : improve design for reuse and recycling in link
with EGD goal (all by 2030), wil contribute to quality harmonization
- Promote uptake recyclates : for example the SUPD and its effective implementation
- Facilitate trade : with development of end of waste criteria
- Basel Convention review: which offers the opportunity to support circular economy
- Quality standards to develop trust in secondary materials: to ensure trusted calculation
methods for the recycled content (eg beverage bottles)
Commissioner
closes the meeting thanking for the constructive exchange and confirming
that the Commission counts on PRE and will continue to ensure involvement of all relevant
stakeholders in the upcoming steps.