Summary:
Cefic, representing Europe’s chemical industry, shares its views on the revision of the Waste Shipments Regulation (WSR) in line with its Mid Century Vision for the Future of Europe, promoting a more circular economy. The association supports the revision to facilitate safe waste handling, reduce illegal waste trade, and transition towards a competitive circular economy. Notably, the paper emphasises creating a dynamic market for waste-to-secondary raw materials, reducing cross-border administrative burdens, and developing innovative recycling technologies. Cefic also voices concerns over potential delays caused by amendments to the Basel Convention. The association also supports the European Commission’s aim to negotiate bilateral agreements with other EEA Member States to facilitate transboundary shipment of wastes. By transforming waste into valuable, new raw materials, the industry performs a crucial role as recycler of the circular society.
Cefic supports:
- the creation of a safe market for waste-to-secondary raw materials and the reduction of cross-border administrative burdens.
- the development of innovative recycling technologies within Europe.
- the European Commission’s aim to negotiate bilateral agreements with other EEA Member States, the UK and other countries to facilitate transboundary waste shipment. A positive outcome would ensure access to a stable, abundant and affordable feedstock which is a prerequisite for industry to scale up innovative solutions, such as chemical recycling technologies.