EU passes new F-gas and waste rules

The European parliament has formally adopted two new regulations tightening rules on the shipment of waste and the use of fluorinated gases (f-gases)

The existing waste shipment regulation (1013/2006/EC) does not contain detailed requirements for inspections and has resulted in some transporters funnelling their shipments through countries with less stringent regimes.

Under the amending regulation, member states have until 1 January 2017 to put in place new detailed inspection plans. These plans must be risk-based and be reviewed every three years. Governments must also publish information on inspections.

Meanwhile, the new f-gas regulation phases out the use of f-gases in equipment such as fridges and freezers from 1 January 2015 and limits the amount of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) that can be sold within the bloc.