TRIMAN labelling: European Commission initiates legal action against France over waste sorting labeling requirements

The European Commission initiated a legal action against France on the issue of waste sorting instructions labelling, known as TRIMAN, claiming that it violates the free movement of goods principle. The labelling logo is mandatory on packaging and products that are typically found in household waste. The industry, represented by EUROPEN, argued that the French packaging rules could have counterproductive environmental impacts. The Commission is critical of France for not conducting a sufficient analysis of the proportionality of its policy choice and for not notifying the national regulation according to EU rules. Harmonized packaging rules are essential for a single market for goods. Belgium, Italy, and Spain have also implemented similar national packaging rules. France has two months to address the Commission's concerns; otherwise, the Commission may send a reasoned opinion to France.

More info: ec.europa.eu