Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme for construction waste: local authorities denounce a challenge to the polluter-pays principle

In this letter, it is proposed in particular to establish a distinction between "mature" materials (metal, wood, inert materials, etc.) and "non-mature" materials (glass wool, mineral wool, etc.), to revisit the obligation for distributors to take back waste, and to consider the establishment of a financial fund intended for the elimination of illegal dumping.

Launched nearly a year ago, the overhaul of the sector has involved several consultation meetings with all stakeholders. Throughout the process, local authority associations have reiterated their red lines in the negotiations, particularly to prevent local authorities from continuing to bear the burden of producers' and eco-organizations' shortcomings. It is clear that the ministerial decision did not take the local authorities' voices into account.

From the outset, local authority associations have been demanding that the costs borne by local authorities in managing construction waste be fully covered by the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme, in accordance with the AGEC law and European regulations. Furthermore, the operational elimination of illegal dumping through EPR must be a key component of the revised specifications.

Discussions between the various stakeholders must resume as soon as possible in order to reach a final version that is acceptable to all.

Illustrative image of the article via Depositphotos.com.