BIR: EU Waste Rules Could Disrupt Global Metal Recycling
Metal Recycling News | 2026-09-24 06:47:56
The organisation also highlighted that Europe can generate more recycled aluminium than its domestic facilities are technically capable of processing.
By Paul Ploumis
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The Bureau of International Recycling (BIR) has warned that a proposed European Union waste shipment rule could disrupt international markets for recycled metals and weaken circular supply chains.
The European Commission’s draft delegated act, published on September 18, establishes a list of non-OECD countries permitted to receive certain non-hazardous waste from the EU for recovery. BIR said the proposal excludes major Asian recycling destinations, including India, Malaysia and Thailand, from receiving ferrous and non-ferrous metal waste.
According to BIR, restricting exports does not guarantee that Europe has sufficient domestic demand or processing capacity to absorb the affected material. A surplus could place downward pressure on recycled metal prices and impact fresh investment in recycling infrastructure.
The organisation also highlighted that Europe can generate more recycled aluminium than its domestic facilities are technically capable of processing. International trade allows different grades and volumes of scrap to reach facilities equipped to handle them.
BIR called for restrictions to be proportionate and supported by robust evidence. It also urged consultation with recycling companies, industry associations and governments in affected non-OECD countries.
The European Commission’s consultation remains open until October 16, 2026. BIR is encouraging stakeholders to submit factual evidence and case studies before the deadline ends.
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POLL
Which region is highlighted by BIR as an important destination for EU recycled metal waste?
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is BIR's main concern about the proposed EU waste shipment rule?
BIR is concerned that the proposal could restrict exports of ferrous and non-ferrous metal waste to established recycling destinations outside the OECD. It says this could disrupt international recycling flows and circular supply chains.
- Which countries could be affected by the proposed restrictions?
According to BIR, major Asian recycling destinations including India, Malaysia and Thailand could be excluded from receiving certain EU metal waste. These markets currently provide processing capacity for various grades and volumes of recyclable material.
- How could export restrictions affect recycled metal prices?
If European markets cannot absorb the material affected by export restrictions, a domestic surplus could develop. BIR says this may place downward pressure on recycled metal prices and potentially affect investment in recycling capacity.
