The new Waste Shipments Regulation sets out stricter rules on the export of waste to non-EU countries. The Regulation will also increase traceability and facilitate the shipments of waste for recycling in the EU and beyond. It will support the circular economy and ensure that waste exported from the EU is treated in an environmentally sustainable way. Under the new Regulation, exports of EU waste to non-OECD countries will only be allowed if these countries inform the European Commission that they are willing to import waste and demonstrate that they have the ability to manage it in a sustainable manner. These new requirements will apply from 21 May 2027. In addition, considering the global problems linked to soaring amounts of plastic waste and the treatment challenges, the export of plastic waste to non-OECD countries will be prohibited from 21 November 2026 for a period of 2.5 years, after which those countries may start receiving plastic waste subject to the strict rules of the regulation.
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