The Council of Europe and European Parliament have reached an agreement targeting a significant reduction in food and textile waste across the EU by 2030, amidst rising concerns over poverty and environmental impact.
The Presidency of the Council of Europe, along with representatives from the European Parliament, has reached a provisional agreement focused on reducing both food and textile waste within the European Union (EU) by the year 2030. The proposed regulations aim to cut food waste derived from processing and production by 10% compared to the average levels observed from 2021 to 2023. Additionally, the agreement suggests a significant target to lower per capita waste generated from retail, restaurants, food services, and households by 30%, also relative to the same baseline period.
A staggering 59 million tons of food waste are produced annually in the EU, leading to an estimated economic loss of 132 billion euros. The textile waste situation is also critical, with the EU producing 12.6 million tons each year; of this amount, clothing and footwear contribute approximately 5.2 million tons, which translates to around 12 kilograms per person annually.
In Romania, where an alarming 46% of children in rural areas under six years old face poverty and risk of malnutrition, combating food waste is becoming increasingly essential. The nation has put into effect a law aimed at reducing food waste, allowing consumers to access discounted prices for food that is nearing its expiration date, while also streamlining the donation process of such food to non-governmental organizations. A survey from the previous year identified that cooked food (48%), vegetables (37%), bakery products (35%), and fruits (34%) constitute the most commonly discarded items by Romanians. Since the establishment of its first food bank in 2016, Romania has increased these supportive services to a total of nine food banks today.
Highlighting the consumer perspective, it is noteworthy that over half of the food waste in the EU originates from households, a figure that is nearly double the waste produced during processing or production. Furthermore, close to 33 million individuals in the EU are reported to be unable to afford a complete meal every two days.
As part of the provisional agreement, new standards for extended producer responsibilities for textile manufacturers and fashion brands have been set forth. These manufacturers will be accountable for their waste and will be required to contribute a fee supporting the collection and processing of textile waste. The fee is determined by the sustainability and circularity that their product designs incorporate. Notably, member states will have the autonomy to adjust these fees based on the lifespan and durability of textile products. Additionally, to alleviate administrative burdens, micro-enterprises will receive an extended compliance timeline of an additional year.
Despite the recognition of the upcoming regulations, Romanian authorities have expressed concern regarding the implementation timetable. As of January 1, the EU’s new regulations mandating the selective collection of textile waste had already come into effect. However, Romania has been criticized for its lack of appropriate infrastructure to recycle textiles, a requirement expected to be fully realized by January 1, 2025. Current estimates show that Romania reuses and recycles under 15% of its textile waste, although the potential could double with the introduction of proper selective collection systems.
Each year, Romania generates approximately 250,000 tons of textile waste, yet only around 15% of this volume is being collected and recycled. The Romanian Association for Reuse and Textile Recycling (ARETEX) highlights the substantial gap in organizational and regulatory frameworks regarding textile waste, along with the limited number of collection initiatives. Consequently, a significant amount of textile waste is incinerated at cement factories rather than being repurposed.
Looking ahead, the provisional agreement will need to undergo review and approval by both the Presidency of the Council of Europe and European Parliament members. Upon formal adoption, EU member states will have up to 20 months to adjust their national legislation to align with the new standards. The European Commission is also tasked with assessing various facets of the Framework Directive on waste, which includes financing extended producer responsibility schemes and establishing targets for textile waste by 2029, among other objectives related to food waste reduction by 2030 and 2035.
Source: Noah Wire Services
