Industry coalition calls for transition period as new EU waste shipment rules take effect. A coalition of 16 European industry bodies led by FEAD has written to Commissioner Roswall calling for a one-year transition period before new EU waste shipment rules are enforced. The Digital Waste Shipment System is not yet fully operational, with the rules due to apply from 21 May 2026.
The signatories, which include CEPI, Eurofer, Plastics Europe, Recycling Europe and EXPRA, warn that the requirement to submit shipment information two working days in advance creates disproportionate logistical and administrative burdens, particularly in border regions where spontaneous shipments are common. They are calling for a harmonised EU approach, flexibility during the transition including alternative means for Annex VII documentation, and a review of the advance submission requirement.
Five additional associations representing the paper, metals and extended producer responsibility sectors joined the letter ahead of a Waste Shipment Expert Group meeting, bringing the total number of signatories to 16.
Packaging firm Pact Group has invested in Plan B Circular, the UK textile-to-textile polyester recycler behind Project Re:claim, its joint venture with the Salvation Army Trading Company (SATCoL). The deal aims to scale polyester recycling ahead of EU legislation expected in 2028.
Sixteen international partners led by Danish Technological Institute have launched InFACT, a project to turn household flexible plastic waste such as crisp packets, coffee bags and meat films into new packaging, including food packaging. Less than 15 per cent of this material is currently recycled.