Answer given by Mr Sinkevičius on behalf of the European Commission
17.11.2020
Article 10(2) and 11(1) of the Waste Framework Directive[1] (WFD) requires Member States to ensure that separate collection is in place at least for paper, metal, plastic and glass. The obligation of separate collection will also apply by 31 December 2023 for bio-waste and by 1 January 2025 for textiles and hazardous waste produced by households.
However, Member States may allow some derogations from the main rule, as envisaged in Article 10(3) WFD. The derogations must be interpreted strictly and justified in the Waste Management Plans in accordance with Article 28(3)(cb) WFD as well as be mentioned in the report required by 31 December 2021 following Article 10(6) WFD .
It has to be noted that, even in scarcely populated mountainous regions, separate collection can deliver the best environmental outcome.
In addition, Article 10(3) WFD stipulates that Member States shall regularly review such derogations taking into account good practices and other developments in waste management.
- [1] Directive 2008/98/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 November 2008 on waste and repealing certain Directives, OJ L 312, 22.11.2008, p. 3‐30.