ABSTRACT
The European Union waste policy and legislation try to minimize adverse environmental impact caused by the generation and treatment of waste. They have developed substantially since 1975, when the very first legislation was adopted (Council Directive 75/442/EEC). The long-term goal of the EU waste policy, i.e. to become a recycling society, was set by the Thematic Strategy on the Prevention and Recycling of Waste or ‘Waste Strategy’ adopted in 2005 (EC, 2005a). The Waste Strategy identified seven key actions to achieve its objectives, and are still valid (EC, 2011b).
Full implementation of existing legislation
Simplifying and modernizing the existing legislation
Introducing life-cycle thinking into waste policy
Promoting more ambitious waste prevention policies, including an obligation to develop and make publicly available waste prevention programmes
Improving knowledge and information
Developing common reference standards for recycling and set a minimum EU standard to ensure a high level of environmental protection
Elaborating the EU's recycling policy further.
