The Waste Framework Directive (2008/98/EC)
The Waste Framework Directive (2008/98/EC) sets the basic concepts and definitions related to waste management, including definitions of waste, recycling and recovery.
The foundation of EU waste management is the five-step “waste hierarchy” established in the Waste Framework Directive. It establishes an order of preference for managing and disposing of waste, where sending waste to landfill should be the last resort.
OUR KEY POSITIONS
We recommend the introduction of the concept of a ’recycling hierarchy’ that will promote circularity, high-quality scrap materials and multiple recycling:
Multi-recyclable packaging materials have the ability to retain their inherent properties after recycling. This means the recycling process for these materials can be repeated over and over again with high recycling yields, guaranteeing minimal amount of material loss, thus maintaining a circular material loop.
The recycling process for limited-recyclable packaging materials leads to a gradual degradation of the original material. The recycled material might not always substitute the primary material on a like-for-like basis, risks being down-cycled and finally leaves the circular material loop.
Making the distinction between multi-recyclable and limited-recyclable packaging materials will also enable Member States and EPR Schemes to factor this distinction in the eco-modulation of EPR fees.
Optimised separate collection should be promoted, as it is a prerequisite to guarantee high-quality recycling, ensuring that valuable materials are kept in the circular loop as long as possible. When considering co-mingled collection schemes, cross-contamination risks need to be assessed.
APEAL supports the initiative for the reduction of food waste.
Food waste constitutes a significant part of the municipal waste. In the Farm to Fork Strategy, the European Commission supports the use of “innovative and sustainable packaging solutions using environmentally-friendly, re-usable and recyclable materials” and consequently acknowledges the key role of food packaging in the sustainability food systems.