SUMMARY:

• On 21 May 2026, most provisions of the EU Waste Shipment Regulation (WSR) entered into application. The Regulation is available here.
• The Regulation aims to strengthen the traceability and environmentally sound management of waste shipments, facilitate recycling and reuse within the EU, and prevent illegal or unsustainable waste exports.
• FESI is in the process of updating its infographics on WSR, which will be shared with members as soon as ready.

MORE INFORMATION:
The new WSR introduces stricter controls on waste exports to third countries, with the objective of ensuring that waste generated in the EU is treated in an environmentally sound manner.  The Regulation also aims to facilitate the shipment of waste for recycling and preparation for re-use within the EU.

With its entry into applicability, procedures for waste shipments are to be processed digitally, improving traceability, transparency and administrative efficiency. Simplified procedures will also apply for certain shipments to pre-consented facilities for recovery. Finally, the WSR strengthens enforcement and cooperation against illegal waste trafficking, including through closer coordination between Member States and enhanced support for investigations into transnational waste-related offences.
Under the new rules, exports of waste to non-OECD countries will only be permitted where the countries concerned notify the Commission of their willingness to receive such waste and demonstrate their ability to manage it sustainably. While most rules entered into applicability on 21 May, these new rules concerning waste exports will only apply from 21 May 2027. In addition, exports of plastic waste to non-OECD countries will be prohibited from 21 November 2026 for an initial period of two and a half years.

NEXT STEPS:

FESI is updating its infographics on the Waste Shipment Regulation to reflect the main changes and applicable timelines.

The updated materials will be shared with members as soon as ready.

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