Draft EU Single Market Strategy: the way forward for an EU-wide circular economy

EUROPEN is pleased to see the draft EU Single Market Strategy placing strong emphasis on circularity and waste. From addressing the fragmentation of Extended Producer Responsibility schemes through harmonised principles and streamlined reporting, to accelerating cross-border shipments of waste, the draft strategy rightly acknowledges the vital role of the Single Market in driving sustainability through deeper integration, relaunching competitiveness and growth.

EUROPEN commends the European Commission for listing fragmented rules on packaging and labelling among the ‘terrible ten’ obstacles that continue to tie down the Single Market, recognising the need to balance clear labels for consumers with the imperative to reduce market barriers and unnecessary burden for industry. “The draft Single Market strategy’s strong emphasis on packaging, circularity and waste management sends a clear message that 27 mini-circular economies will not deliver competitiveness and sustainability. The steady disintegration of the Single Market, caused by EU governments going it alone, is not only harming competitiveness but is also holding back moves towards an EU-wide circular economy driven by investment in innovation,” said Francesca Siciliano Stevens, Secretary General of EUROPEN. “The draft Single Market Strategy shows the Commission might finally be ready to reclaim its role as Guardian of the Treaty” she added.

What we hope to see in the final version of the strategy? Safeguarding the integrity of the Single Market is a shared responsibility and requires joint ownership. Greater ambition in ensuring timely and consistent enforcement of Single Market principles by the European Commission and Member States, together with the strengthening of legal mechanisms for early notification and proportionality checks, is essential to unlocking the full potential of the Single Market.