Last week, the European Commission published several initiatives to speed up the EU’s transition to a circular economy and prepare for the Circular Economy Act, expected in 2026.

 EuRIC strongly welcomes the publication of the implementing act for the Digital Waste Shipment System (DIWASS) and the launch of a public consultation on new green-listed waste entries. Digitalising waste shipment procedures is a crucial step forward, simplifying and accelerating the notification processes essential for operators and authorities alike.

However, EuRIC raises concerns about the tight timeline for implementing DIWASS, which must be fully operational in less than one year – by 21 May 2026. For recyclers to adapt in a compliant and effective manner, early clarity on the system to be used (central hub or national system), timely access to test environments, and clear backup procedures in case of technical disruptions are critical. This is especially important for the submission of Annex VII, which is core to daily business operations.

EuRIC also strongly welcomes the public consultations on harmonising the classification of certain waste types (“green-listed” waste) to facilitate cross-border shipments within the EU. We need to ensure that non-hazardous e-waste can continue to move without notification as of 2027 to enable economies of scale for recycling critical materials such as copper, steel, and plastics. Similarly, adapting green-listed entries for intra-EU shipments is vital for other streams, including textile waste, to align classifications with operational realities and facilitate treatment across Member States.

EuRIC looks forward to actively contributing to the consultation processes open until October 2025 and to supporting the European Commission’s work in advancing the circular economy, which is essential to Europe’s environmental and industrial leadership.