ACR+, together with other international organizations and stakeholders, has addressed an open letter to Jean-Claude Juncker, President of the European Commission, to express deep concern about the potential withdrawal of the Circular Economy Package from the Commission’s 2015 Work Programme. Given its potential for green job creation, resource security, environmental protection and economic growth, combined with the strong support from a wide variety of stakeholders, the signatories condemn its possible withdrawal.
Since its release in July 2014, the political process has begun in earnest, and this shall be allowed to continue. During October 2014’s Environment Council Meeting, Member States explicitly recognised that a transition towards a resource efficient circular economy is essential for future competitiveness and long-term sustainable development. The Committee of the Regions has already issued a draft opinion, and the European Parliament has also begun its work, demonstrating the strength of interest in this proposal.
Numerous studies have highlighted the significant environmental, economic and social benefits of moving towards a circular economy. In addition to clear environmental benefits, the impact assessment shows that full implementation of current EU waste legislation together with more ambitious waste policy would create over 580,000 jobs, increase the annual turnover of the EU waste management and recycling sector by €42 billion and would save €72 billion a year in waste management costs.
As such, it is a cornerstone for Europe’s future competitiveness. With broad stakeholder support across Europe, this letter call on the European Commission to respect the will of European citizens, municipalities, politicians, academics, NGOs and businesses by supporting the continued discussion and adoption process for the Package.
