The Commission proposals to review recycling and other waste-related targets represent an important step towards improving resource efficiency and moving closer to a circular European economy. They set out ambitious goals proposed to increase the share of recycling and preparing for reuse of municipal waste to a minimum of 50% by weight by 2020 and to a minimum of 70% by weight by 2030. These goals will be very challenging for local authorities. Implementing the systems needed to achieve these targets would lead to significant costs increases for city authorities at a time when public finances are extremely stretched and focussed on making further cost savings. City authorities have already invested heavily in their waste and recycling systems. They have also invested in thermal treatment systems with energy recovery, supplying energy and heat for district heating and district cooling systems.

EUROCITIES statement on the review of EU waste policy and legislation.pdf

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