Empowering Glass Recycling in the EU: Glass for Europe’s Advocacy
In the heat of summer, Glass for Europe took a proactive stance by actively participating in two vital EU consultations focusing on construction and demolition waste (CDW). The objective was clear – to shed light on the significance of building glass recycling and emphasize how seemingly minor EU initiatives targeted at glass can lead to remarkable advancements in flat glass recycling within a closed-loop system.
Building Glass Recycling in Focus
In addition to providing comprehensive responses to both questionnaires, Glass for Europe submitted dedicated input that delved deeper into building glass recycling. This additional focus was designed to amplify our commitment to promoting sustainable practices within the glass industry.
Consultation 1: Techno-Economical and Environmental Assessment
The first consultation was initiated by the Joint Research Centre of the European Commission. Its purpose was to contribute valuable insights to a study on the techno-economical and environmental assessment of CDW management. Glass for Europe’s response aimed to highlight the role of glass in CDW recycling and its potential for significant contributions.
Consultation 2: Priority Construction Materials
The second consultation, led by the European Commission DG Environment services, aimed to identify priority construction materials for the development of end-of-waste criteria and by-products. While glass already has established end-of-waste criteria, it was not a focal point in the European Commission’s work. Glass for Europe, a staunch advocate for harmonized by-products criteria, emphasized that flat glass should be considered a priority for their development. Given the existing end-of-waste criteria, flat glass could serve as a practical pilot for harmonized by-products criteria.
Beyond Consultations: Advocating Through Video
In addition to our formal input to the public consultation, Glass for Europe took a dynamic step by releasing an informative video. Featuring Joana Arreguy, Chairwoman and Glass Industrial Director of Saint-Gobain, this video underscores the importance of flat glass recycling and presents solutions to overcome current challenges.
As we navigate the path toward a more sustainable future, Glass for Europe remains committed to advocating for the glass industry’s vital role in recycling and sustainability initiatives. Through active participation in EU consultations and dynamic advocacy efforts, we strive to create a brighter, greener future for all.
Source: Glass for Europe with additional information added by Apazone
