Moldovan government approves new measures to promote waste recycling

5 February 2025, Chișinău - Government approved today regulations to facilitate and promote the recycling of waste such as copper, iron and steel, aluminum, glass shards and compost. The document aims to enhance environmental protection and transpose European regulations in the field.

The regulation introduces the concept of end-of-waste (EoW), which will allow certain types of waste to become valuable raw materials if they meet specific criteria related to pollutant levels and environmental impact. Thus, after undergoing a recycling or recovery process, copper, iron, steel, aluminum, glass shards and compost will cease to be considered waste.

The regulation targets all economic agents involved in waste management, especially those conducting recycling activities. Economic agents will be able to apply for EoW status for the materials they process in accordance with circular economy principles, allowing them to sell recycled materials at higher prices, thereby increasing their competitiveness in the market.

The decision to grant EoW status will be made by the Environmental Agency and will apply only to waste streams for which an application has been submitted.

Through this measure, authorities aim to reduce the amount of waste reaching landfills, support recycling and improve resource management while encouraging compliance with environmental regulations.