Community strategy for waste management
The Council of the European Union has published its resolution of 24 February 1997 on a Community strategy for waste management. The Council acknowledges the efforts already made within the Community to improve waste management, but recognizes that there is still increasing waste generation. The Council emphasizes that environmental considerations, and in particular the principle of sustainable development, should form the basis of the Community's waste management strategy. The resolution calls for cooperation between the Commission, the Member States, and other interested parties, in the development of a Community strategy for waste management, and in the promotion of waste management measures. The Council notes the value of reliable data on waste in the Community, based on common definitions and comparability. There should be clear distinctions between waste recovery (recycling) and waste disposal activities, according to the resolution. The Council states that, in accordance with the polluter pays principle, all economic actors should take responsibility for the prevention, recovery and disposal of waste. However, some support measures may be needed to encourage SMEs to adopt responsible waste management policies. Waste prevention should be the first priority for all rational waste policy, according to the Council. In addition, the resolution calls for the waste management implications to be taken into account from the conception phase of any product. The Commission is asked to consider additional measures necessary for the promotion of waste prevention, and to bring forward proposals as appropriate. The Commission will present a report on progress towards a Community waste management strategy by 31 December 2000.