EucoLight cautiously welcomes the Commission’s Circular Economy Package

EucoLight, the association of European Lighting WEEE compliance schemes has cautiously welcomed the Circular Economy Package released by the European Commission in December 2015.  It is particularly pleased to observe that the Commission considers Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes, are a key tool of an efficient circular economy.

Commenting on the news, Recolight CEO Nigel Harvey, who is also a Director of EucoLight said “The recommendations include minimum operational requirements for EPR schemes, including WEEE schemes, in new article 8a of the proposal for a revised Waste Directive.  These include principles such as the requirement to provide non-discriminatory services for all participants, transparency of financing by producers, and clear procedures for the procurement of waste services.  We fully support these measures, which would all contribute towards a level playing field for EPR schemes and recyclers.”

He added:  “The proposals also include a requirement to differentiate fees to producers, where products are easier to recycle.  Whilst this will require some thought to legislate and enforce, the benefits to the circular economy are clearly significant.”

He concluded:  “We will study the proposals further.  There are certainly some areas in which greater clarity is required.  But this is definitely a good start.  We are already in dialogue with the European Institutions and other relevant organisations to help make the final legislation a success.”