As part of the Thematic Strategy on the prevention and recycling of waste of 21 December 2005, the Commission adopted a proposal for revision of the Waste Framework Directive which set out a mechanism to tackle one of the issues around the waste definition, relating to setting criteria from when some waste streams cease to be waste.

Instead of also proposing to define in the legal text, the Commission committed itself to coming forward with clear guidance on the issue of waste and by-products, a commitment that is now met with a Communication published on 21 February 2007.

The Communication interprets existing law, as set down in the Waste Framework Directive and as interpreted by the European Court of Justice.

It does not affect the ongoing revision of the Waste Framework Directive but will enable any changes envisaged to this Directive to be made with a clear understanding of the current legal situation.

More info contact Sander Scheurwater e sscheurwater@rics.org