International shipments of waste in the light of changes in EU legislation

Last December, the EU authorities announced changes to the regulations governing the management of packaging waste. As early as 11 February this year, Regulation (EU) 2025/40 will enter into force, replacing Directive 94/62/EC, which has so far regulated the handling of this waste. How will the new regulations affect the international transport of packaging waste?

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The international carriage of waste is one of the topics addressed in the regulation that will come into force on 11 February 2025. What are its main features?

International transport of packaging waste in the EU – harmonisation of standards

New Regulation (EU) 2025/40 of the European Parliament and of the Council introduces uniform rules for the transport of packaging waste across the European Union. Until now, each member state was allowed to apply its own standards, leading to legal ambiguities and difficulties in international logistics. The unification includes, among other things, standardised notification procedures for waste shipments, uniform shipment documentation and common waste classification criteria.

The new standards also introduce mandatory training for hauliers and waste shippers to improve environmental awareness and knowledge of the regulations. The standardisation of procedures will allow companies to comply more easily with the regulations, which will increase transport efficiency. Carriers will be able to use uniform forms and standardised customs procedures, which will reduce waiting times at borders and minimise the risk of formal errors.

International shipments of waste and environmental protection

The new regulations place a strong emphasis on minimising the negative environmental impact of waste transport. Haulage companies will have to use cleaner modes of transport, such as low-emission or electric vehicles. In addition, hauliers will have to reduce CO2 emissions by optimising routes and using alternative fuels.

Documentation confirming the use of environmentally friendly practices, such as proper waste containment or the use of biodegradable materials in secondary packaging, will also play an important role. Companies will be required to organise regular environmental audits. They will also have to implement procedures to minimise energy consumption during the loading and unloading of waste. The new regulations aim not only to protect the environment, but also to promote innovative transport technologies.

Transparency and monitoring of waste flows

The amendment makes the use of integrated waste flow monitoring systems mandatory. Every shipment will have to be tracked in real time using GPS systems and digital monitoring platforms. This will enable a rapid response to irregularities and prevent illegal waste shipments.

With these changes, control authorities will have easier access to transport documentation and data on transport routes. Transparency of processes will increase trust in transport companies and facilitate enforcement. The implementation of digital certificates and electronic signatures will further streamline control processes.

Paweł Koszyński, CEO at Innovation Trading Sp. z o.o., who has already been active in the transport industry for many years, when asked to comment on the upcoming changes, replied:

In just a few days, on 11 February 2025, new regulations will come into force, changing the way in which the transport of packaging waste is approached. I know that the new regulation will place great emphasis on the issue of monitoring shipments. HOGS maps that I use, which is part of the Freight Automation by HOGS system, is a great support for hauliers. They allow me to monitor in real time exactly where the vehicles are. This not only allows me to follow the route accurately, but also to ensure that everything is being done in accordance with the strict new regulations. This solution gives me full control over every stage of the transport, which increases safety and makes it easier for me to organise my work. So I am well prepared.

Division of responsibility in the transport chain

The new legislation clearly defines the responsibility of each participant in the transport chain. The shipper is responsible for classifying and labelling the waste correctly, the carrier for safe transport in accordance with regulationsand the recipient for the proper treatment of the waste.

The regulation also introduces the obligation to conclude transport contracts which clearly define the responsibilities of each party. In the event of an infringement, liability will be shared in proportion to the actor's role in the transport process. In addition, each participant will have to keep detailed records of his or her activities, which will facilitate investigation in the event of irregularities. This approach aims to increase legal and environmental awareness among all market participants.

Technical and operational requirements for means of transport

The regulation introduces new technical standards for vehicles transporting packaging waste. Vehicles must be equipped with appropriate systems to protect the load from shifting, crushing or spilling during transport. It is also important to provide protection from the weather to prevent contamination of the waste.

In addition, vehicles will have to comply with Euro 6 emission standards and transport companies will be required to use energy recovery technologies. Transport companies will have to carry out regular technical inspections and vehicle maintenance. Failure to comply with these obligations could result in financial penalties and even the loss of the waste transport licence.

Support for a circular economy

The new legislation promotes the development of a circular economy by encouraging the recycling and reuse of packaging. Companies that invest in technologies that enable the recovery of materials will be eligible for tax breaks and financial support from EU funds.

Cooperation between EU Member States will be key to the effective implementation of the principles of a circular economy. The regulations aim to create a more sustainable waste management system, reducing dependence on primary raw materials.