PRESS STATEMENT - 02.12.2015

Waste reduction, recycling and repairing broken products are the central elements of the “circular economy package” presented today by the European Commission. One year ago, the European Commission withdrew a previous circular economy package amidst a big public outcry.

Today’s package contains a legislative proposal on waste as well as an action plan outlining a number of planned key measures for instance regarding product design (Ecodesign), food waste and green claims.

Monique Goyens, Director General of The European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) commented:

“It is hard to grasp why a nearly new dishwasher with a broken insulation ring has to be discarded after just a few years of service. Not only do unrepairable washing machines and short-lived smartphones waste scarce natural resources, but they are also a financial drain for consumers. The transition from a throwaway society to a circular economy makes excellent economic sense for consumers.

“The Commission’s decision to repeal a previous version of a circular economy agenda raised many concerns that this policy had become the first victim of the Commission’s so-called 'better regulation' push. The best way to dispel these worries is to ensure that words are quickly turned into concrete actions.

“Convenience for consumers would be greatly increased with more durable products – products that can be repaired, upgraded and for which spare parts are available. Producers should be legally bound to take durability into account when developing new products. Writing this requirement into EU law would clearly be a great leap forward.”