The European Parliament’s Environment Committee (ENVI) has backed a proposal to temporarily suspend the requirement for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to appoint an authorized representative for extended producer responsibility (EPR) in each EU Member State.
While the Commission proposed a complete suspension until 2035 of the obligation on producers to appoint an authorized representative for extended producer responsibility (EPR) in each member state, ENVI voted to limit this suspension to EU-based micro and small enterprises—companies that employ fewer than 50 persons and have an annual turnover under €10 million, or an annual balance sheet total under €10 million. Companies from outside the EU would still need to appoint representatives. ENVI also supported a sunset clause ending the suspension automatically once comprehensive circularity rules enter into force.
Parliament is expected to confirm its position during the October 19-22 plenary session, paving the way for negotiations with the Council on the final legislation.
