The European Chemical Regions Network contributed to the call for evidence for an impact assessment on the revision of the EU waste framework. In line with the objectives of the European Green Deal and the Circular Economy Action Plan, the review aims to improve the overall environmental outcome of waste management in line with the waste hierarchy and the implementation of the polluter pays principle.

The European Chemical Regions Network (ECRN) is fully committed to achieving a fully circular economy in Europe. Waste flows are not limited to regional and national boundaries. That is why the waste policy should be developed and implemented at the European level to guarantee harmonized rules for all stakeholders and to protect the environment and human health against the adverse impacts that could be caused by the improper shipping or management of waste.

Therefore, ECRN Members call the European Commission to:

• Speed up the adoption of harmonised definitions and indicators on waste as a feedstock in the circular economy across EU countries.
• Harmonise and simplify administrative procedures for shipments of waste and resources, make efficient use of digital solutions, and take concrete actions to support recycling industries to cope with the new requirements.
• Incentivise circular business models in light of their environmental benefits and facilitate a secure and high-quality supply of secondary raw materials.
• Support regions in the definition and implementation of sound and environmentally sustainable strategies for circularity and waste management.