BIR: EU Considers Wider Controls on Recycled Material Exports

Metal Recycling News  |  2026-09-14 04:51:10   |   By

BIR said a conclusion on the regulation’s potential practical consequences could be reached only upon publication of a detailed proposal by the European Commission.

Summary
  • EU Considers Broader Export Restrictions
    The European Commission is reportedly preparing a delegated act that could tighten exports of recyclable materials from the EU to non-OECD countries. The proposal would extend beyond an aluminium-focused measure and could affect international recycling trade.
  • Stricter Waste Shipment Rules Ahead
    The revised EU Waste Shipment Regulation, effective since May 2024, will introduce tougher requirements from May 21, 2027. Covered non-hazardous waste exports for recovery to non-OECD countries will generally be prohibited unless the destination country receives EU authorization.
  • Impact Remains Unclear Until Draft Is Published
    The Bureau of International Recycling cautioned that the proposal's practical impact cannot yet be assessed. Key factors include the materials covered, eligible destinations, exemptions and the eventual implementation schedule.

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The European Commission is preparing a broader policy that could tighten exports of recyclable materials from the European Union to non-OECD countries, according to the Bureau of International Recycling (BIR).

The proposed approach would expand beyond an aluminium-focused trade measure, the trade body said. The Commission is reportedly working on a delegated act under the EU Waste Shipment Regulation (WSR), with adoption expected by the end of 2026, following a public consultation period.

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BIR cautioned that the proposal remains unclear until the draft legislation is released. The actual impact of the proposal on recycling companies and international trade could be determined only on the basis of materials covered, destination countries, possible exemptions and implementation timeline.

The revised WSR, which took effect in May 2024, already introduces stricter requirements from May 21, 2027. Exports of covered non-hazardous waste for recovery to non-OECD countries, except to those countries that are granted EU authorization, will generally be barred.

The European Commission is evaluating applications from non-OECD nations seeking authorization. The initial approved-country list is expected by November 21, 2026.

BIR said a conclusion on the regulation’s potential practical consequences could be reached only upon publication of a detailed proposal by the European Commission.