The EC has given Bulgaria two months to implement the EU Waste Directive

Bulgaria has not transposed several provisions of the EU Waste Directive into its legislation. In this regard, the European Commission has sent a reasoned opinion and called on the country to adopt the amendments within two months. Otherwise, it may refer the matter to the Court of Justice of the European Union.

The Commission has found that Bulgaria has not correctly transposed several important provisions of the amended directive. The main shortcomings include:

• general minimum requirements for extended producer responsibility schemes. This concerns the responsibility of producers for the entire life cycle of their products, including collection and recycling after use;
• specific requirements for monitoring and evaluating waste prevention measures;
• measures to prevent the mixing of waste oils.

The deadline for transposing the directive into national law was July 5, 2020, but five years later, Bulgaria has still not adequately fulfilled its obligations.

The Commission sent an official letter of notification to Bulgaria back in November 2023.

Although the Bulgarian authorities have committed to amending their national legislation to ensure full compliance with the directive, the relevant changes have not yet been made, according to a press release from the European institution.

What is the aim of the Waste Framework Directive?

The Waste Framework Directive is a key instrument in the EU's efforts to move towards a circular economy. It aims to prevent or reduce waste generation, limit the overall impact of resource use, and increase resource efficiency.

The directive also sets binding targets for the preparation for reuse and recycling of certain waste streams, including household waste. It also requires Member States to improve their waste management systems.

What are the consequences?

If Bulgaria fails to comply within two months, the Commission may decide to refer the matter to the Court of Justice of the European Union. The court case could result in significant financial penalties for the country, in addition to the negative consequences for the environment and the efficiency of waste management.

Translated with DeepL.