The EU is stepping up work on its Circular Economy Act, with momentum building across stakeholders, institutions and industry ahead of the upcoming proposal. Also this week, updates on energy security, State aid, competitiveness and more!
Commission report highlights progress on plastic bottle collection targets: On 16 April, the Commission published its first report on the Single-Use Plastics Directive, showing that several Member States have already met 2030 targets.
ECESP conference highlights direction of Circular Economy Act: The ECESP Annual Conference on 22–23 April focused on shaping the upcoming Circular Economy Act. The newly established ECESP Coordination Group, of which FEAD is a member, was actively involved, particularly during the second ‘stakeholder day’.
Draft report of European Competitiveness Fund published: On 20 April, co-rapporteurs Christian Ehler (EPP, Germany) and Dan Nica (S&D, Romania) published their draft report on the European Competitiveness Fund (ECF). In it, they allocate more specific funding to the different priorities covered under the ECF
Industry coalition calls for stronger circular economy framework: On 21 April, major companies, including IKEA, H&M, Phillips or TOMRA, outlined joint recommendations in a letter coordinated by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation on the future circular economy regulation.
Delegated act on destruction of unsold textiles published: On 22 April, a delegated regulation under the Ecodesign framework was published in the Official Journal, detailing exemptions to the ban on destroying unsold textiles.
Parliament to vote on mandate for chemicals ‘Omnibus VI’: During the April plenary session, the European Parliament is expected to vote on its mandate for negotiations with the Council on the proposed regulation simplifying requirements for chemicals, cosmetics and fertilisers, also known as the chemicals omnibus (Omnibus VI).
New EU rules on water pollutants published: On 20 April, the EU published a directive updating water legislation in the Official Journal, introducing new substances to monitor in surface and groundwater.
Council backs EU energy and climate diplomacy conclusions: On 21 April, the Council adopted conclusions on EU energy and climate diplomacy, reaffirming the EU’s commitment to the clean transition to strengthen strategic autonomy.
EEA reports continued decline in EU emissions: On 17 April, the European Environment Agency published an analysis showing EU greenhouse gas emissions fell by 3% between 2023 and 2024, amounting to a 40% reduction since 1990.
EEA highlights need for people-centred circular economy transition: On 21 April, the European Environment Agency published assessments, Scaling circular business models in Europe and Just transition to a circular economy.
Commission approves Czech biomethane State aid scheme: On 14 April, the Commission approved a €3.7 billion Czech scheme, to support biomethane production.
Commission consults on Temporary Crisis Framework for State aid: On 13 April, the Commission launched a consultation with Member States on a draft Temporary Crisis Framework to support the EU economy amid the Middle East crisis.
Commission engages with banks on State aid and financing barriers: On 24 March, DG Competition announced a ‘Reality Check’ meeting with National Promotional Banks to assess financing obstacles, scheduled 28 April. .
Parliament advances work on post-2027 EU budget (MFF): On 21 April, the European Parliament published an interim report on the proposal for the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2028–2034.
Debate emerges on scope of ‘Made in Europe’ law: On 23 April, Euronews reported that MEP Christophe Grudler called for limiting the scope of the proposed ‘Made in Europe’ law to geographically close countries.
MEPs raise concerns over non-compliant e-commerce imports: On 17 April, Members of the European Parliament highlighted enforcement challenges during a visit to China, according to a Parliament update.
Anthony Whelan appointed Director-General of DG Competition: On 13 April, the Commission announced the appointment of Anthony Whelan, highlighting his extensive experience in State aid, digital policy and economic affairs. According to Politico, his promotion was expected to trigger a broader reorganisation of senior roles, but this has not materialised.
Commission clears acquisition of lead recycling plants: On 13 April, the Commission approved Clarios’ acquisition of Ecobat’s recycling facilities.
