The EU’s calendar of action on circular economy and waste

While much economic activity is screeching to a halt and traffic is so low many cities are being cleared of air pollution, European legislative life continues to hum along in Brussels.

Earlier this month, the European Commission adopted a new Circular Economy Action Plan which outlines the numerous measures the EU executive is planning to reduce waste, increase reuse and recycling, and lengthen the lifespan of products. From automobiles to food packaging, and textiles to oils, the goal is to lower our use of natural resources in line with what the planet can bear. The plan outlines over thirty initiatives the Commission is planning in the coming years, several of which will have a significant impact on towns and regions.

Green Public Procurement

From 2021 onwards, the Commission will propose minimum mandatory Green Public Procurement (GPP) criteria and targets in sectoral legislation. With public authorities’ purchasing power representing a whopping 14% of EU GDP, public procurement is a powerful driver of demand. The new rules could mean increased reporting requirements for local and regional governments so as to monitor the uptake of green procurement. The Commission will continue to provide guidance and training for public authorities in this area.

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