Waste Framework Directive

The Waste Framework Directive (2008/98/EC)¹ provides the foundation for EU waste law, including the five-step waste hierarchy, mandatory waste prevention, separate collection, recycling targets, and reporting obligations. A key instrument embedded in this framework is Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), which operationalises the polluter-pays principle by requiring producers to finance the collection and treatment of end-of-life products. The EU also promotes complementary incentive mechanisms such as deposit-return systems (DRS)², which strengthen collection rates by encouraging consumers to return packaging and recyclable materials.