(Finance) – The European Parliament has definitively approved the new EU control measures for shipments of waste. With 587 votes in favour, 8 against and 33 abstentions, MEPs approved the agreement reached with the Council which aims to more effectively protect the environment and human health, while contributing to the circular economy objectives of the EU and the zero pollution.
Rules for exporting waste from the EU to third countries will be stricter. The exports of plastic waste to non-OECD countries will be banned within two and a half years of the regulation coming into force, while those to OECD countries will be subject to stricter conditions.
Within the EU, the exchange of information and data on shipments of waste will be digitalised, through a central electronic hub, to improve communication and transparency. Shipping waste intended for disposal in another EU country will only be permitted in exceptional circumstances. The new law It also establishes a working group to improve cooperation between EU countries on the prevention of illegal shipments.