Developed through the collaboration of the Hazards Out partners (the Association of Cities and Regions for Sustainable Resource Management – ACR+, the European Waste Management Association – FEAD and Hazardous Waste Europe – HWE) and further endorsed by key European organisations from the waste management and recycling sector (the European Electronics Recyclers Association – EERA and the International Solid Waste Association – ISWA), the Declaration reflects the main conclusions and recommendations emerging from the Hazards Out initiative so far and our series of workshops on separate collection of HHW. While household hazardous waste represents only a small fraction of municipal waste by volume, the Declaration underlines its disproportionate impact on human health, the environment, recycling quality, and circular economy objectives. The Declaration calls for: Continued support for local authorities and waste operators implementing the mandatory separate collection of HHW; Stronger awareness-raising and citizen engagement efforts; Training and capacity building across the value chain; Shared responsibility across the value chain in establishing effective financial instruments; Better data collection, monitoring, and material characterisation of HHW. Read the press release Download the declaration
Addressing the Staggering Costs of PFAS Pollution – Event Tuesday, 23 September 2025 | 16:00 – 20:00 | Brussels
PFAS pollution is a growing threat to public health, ecosystems, and the economy. Contamination of water, soil, and food continues to drive up costs for clean-up, healthcare, and litigation. Despite strong scientific evidence and rising public concern, regulatory progress remains slow and incomplete. The universal PFAS restriction proposed by five EU countries is still underway. Just last week, ECHA announced that the eight newly identified PFAS use sectors will not be assessed individually- raising serious doubts about the scientific integrity of the process. France has recently adopted one of the most ambitious PFAS laws, setting a precedent in corporate responsibility. This is a crucial moment for the EU and the PFAS Restriction Proposal. Co-organised by the Permanent Representation of France to the EU, the European Environmental Bureau, and HWE Hazardous Waste Europe, this conference will bring together policymakers, scientists, and stakeholders to: Highlight the social and economic costs of PFAS pollution Reinforce the call for a comprehensive EU-wide PFAS phase-out Advocate for polluter accountability and support for affected communities Raise awareness among MEPs, EU institutions, and Member States The event features two panels focused on: The economic and societal costs of PFAS pollution Solutions and tools to address PFAS pollution Registration is open until 17 September. (Please note: Space is limited, and registration does not guarantee participation) Link to register Download the agenda