The proposed regulation builds on the provisions of the Basel Convention that already bans exports of hazardous waste from the EU to third countries.
The European Council said in a statement that since the adoption of the regulation in 2006, exports from the EU to non-OECD countries have ‘increased considerably’. According to the Basel Action Network (BAN), EU plastic waste exports to non-OECD countries rose to 50 million kg/month in May 2023 from 28.1 million kg/month in May 2022, equivalent to 303 shipping containers per day.
“The lack of detailed provisions to ensure that waste is managed sustainably in the countries of destination has led to weak enforcement and environmental and public health challenges in those countries,” the Council commented.
Non-OECD countries can apply for exemptions to the ban within five years after the regulation enter into force if they demonstrate ‘strict’ waste management standards. If the European Commission approves the application, it can lift the export ban by means of a delegated act.
The export bans expected to come into force from mid-2026 assuming the European Council and Parliament formally adopt the text.
The provisional legislation still allows for waste exports to OECD countries, such as Turkey, the largest destination for EU plastic waste exports in recent years. EU exports to Turkey increased from 4.5 million kg/month in June 2021 to 31.7 million kg/month in May 2023, equivalent to 192 truckloads of plastic waste per day.
Source: sustainableplastics.com
