Transforming Waste into Products

Directive 2008/98/EC

The European Union Waste Framework Directive (2008/98/EC) promotes the reduction, reuse, and recycling of materials to move towards a circular economy. This directive introduces concepts such as by-product and end-of-waste status, which are crucial for transforming waste into resources, closing the material loop, and minimizing their environmental impact.

By-product

A by-product is a substance or object resulting from a production process whose primary purpose is not the production of that substance or object. For a waste to be considered a by-product, it must meet the following conditions:

  • It is certain that the substance will be used subsequently.
  • It is used directly without having to undergo any treatment other than normal industrial practice.
  • It is produced as part of a production process.
  • All relevant requirements relating to products and the protection of human health and the environment for the specific use are met, and it does not produce adverse impacts on the environment or human health.

End-of-waste status

The end-of-waste status occurs when a waste, after being subjected to a recovery operation (including recycling), meets the following conditions and is considered a secondary raw material:

  • It must be used for specific purposes.
  • There must be a market or demand for the product.
  • It must meet technical requirements for specific purposes, existing legislation, and applicable product standards.
  • Its use does not generate adverse impacts on the environment or human health.

At ServiREACH, we can help you determine if you meet all the requirements to consider a waste as a by-product or to request the end-of-waste status. We handle the preparation of all the necessary supporting documentation to submit the authorization request to the Administration.

Are you interested in applying for end-of-waste status or by-product authorization?

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