A new report by the Bio-based Industries Consortium (BIC) and Zero Waste Europe considers the case for Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for food products in the European Union.
Although the EU mandated separate collection of bio-waste under the revised Waste Framework Directive in 2025, it is estimated that only 26% of around 60 million tonnes of kitchen waste available annually is currently captured. The report analyses how implementing EPR could address food waste prevention and collection challenges. Unlike traditional waste management funding for bio-waste, which relies entirely on public authorities and taxpayers, this approach could shift partial financial and operational responsibility to actors who can significantly influence consumer behaviour and waste generation patterns.
Dr Yue Zhang, Co-Lead of the AF WG, said: âFood waste, whether domestic or industrial, is a particularly valuable feedstock for anaerobic fermentation processes, because of its high energy and nutrient content. It is intriguing to think whether introduction of EPR could help to change attitudes and promote a wider understanding that this material is not a waste, but a key resource for bio-based products in the circular economyâ.
For more information and to access the report see here.