The reforms fall under the revised EU Waste Shipment Regulation (EUWSR) and include the implementation of Digital Waste Shipment System (DIWASS).
DIWASS is a centralised electronic platform for managing waste shipment procedures across the bloc.
The move marks the end of paper-based waste tracking in favour of a fully digital system.
Although DIWASS is not mandatory for UK operators, businesses involved in waste exports that involve EU transit or destinations may still choose to use the platform depending on how their operations interact with European markets.
Northern Ireland waste carriers will be mandated to use the system under EU law.
It is expected that the DIWASS system will interplay with the UK’s own Digital Waste Tracking system, which is due to be phased in from October 2026.
Read a full timeline of upcoming changes effecting the exports of waste here.
Paul Sanderson, Chief Executive of The Recycling Association, said: “DIWASS is a big deal for those exporting into Europe and we have worked with colleagues at Defra and regulators to know how it will affect our members.
“Those in Northern Ireland have to use it of course, while the rest of the UK will ultimately see some sort of impact.
“While there are changes to the documentation immediately such as Annex VII forms, the digital element now won’t change fully until the start of 2027 which is a relief.
“Of course, we urge regulations to reduce bureaucracy where they can, and we would urge them to adopt DIWASS as the default for exports into Europe to make trade easier.”
Notably, the new EU reforms mean that the export of plastic waste to non-OECD countries is now generally prohibited.
At the same time, exports to OECD countries face stricter monitoring requirements designed to ensure waste is managed sustainably.
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