Waste disposal regulations should not go beyond EU requirements: Chamber of Commerce

Luxembourg introduced a zero-waste strategy in 2019 aimed at reducing single-use packaging, improving waste separation and recycling. The new national waste management plan is designed to build on the previous strategy, but Luxembourg's Chamber of Commerce warns that stricter regulations will be difficult to implement, particularly in the hospitality sector.

The Chamber of Commerce argues that Luxembourg’s legislation on waste and recycling should not go beyond what is already required under EU legislation. "Our position is that when EU directives are transposed into national law, Luxembourg should avoid gold-plating and closely stick to what is set out at European level in order to maintain that so-called level playing field", argues Lucie Martin, economist at the Chamber.

The competitiveness of businesses in Luxembourg is comparably lower to its neighbouring countries and companies therefore need support in their sustainability efforts. According to the Chamber, "businesses are ready to make sustainability efforts, there is no doubt about that, but they need affordable and practical solutions that do not impose excessive costs on businesses."

One example put forward is the introduction of centralised collection and cleaning systems for reusable takeaway packaging, which would help smaller businesses adapt more easily. "The legislative measures should strike a balance between ambitious environmental goals and the economic viability of companies", Martin stressed. "It is essential to take into account the reality on the ground.”

The Chamber argues that while sustainability must become the more economically attractive option for businesses. It has also raised concerns about the feasibility of introducing a deposit system for bottles in Luxembourg, suggesting instead that efforts should focus on efficient collection and the recycling of empty containers.