The new EU Waste Shipment Regulation (EU) 2024/1157 will introduce stricter rules for the cross-border disposal of waste from 21 May 2026. The aim is to curb illegal export practices and strengthen the circular economy within Europe.
For tire retailers, automotive businesses, and car dealerships, this means one thing above all: greater responsibility when choosing a disposal partner. This is because the requirements for documentation, traceability, and environmental standards are being significantly tightened.
A key aspect of the new regulation is the mandatory advance notification for cross-border transports. For example, if used tires are collected from abroad, they must be registered in advance in a digital system. This will make material flows more transparent and easier for authorities to control.
At the same time, stricter regulations apply to exports: Used tires may only be exported under clearly defined conditions.
This increases the risk for businesses of unwittingly becoming involved in illegal waste disposal schemes if they use unsuitable disposal partners. Therefore, cooperation with certified waste management companies is all the more important.
Key criteria are:
- Traceable recycling routes within Europe
- Complete documentation
- Compliance with digital reporting obligations
- Avoiding opaque export solutions
Waste management companies are also facing changes: Export-oriented business models are increasingly under pressure, while European recycling structures and high-quality recycling processes are gaining in importance. Digital processes will ensure complete transparency along the entire waste management chain in the future.
The new regulation thus marks a turning point: it strengthens environmental standards, creates fairer competitive conditions and promotes a sustainable circular economy in Europe.
The partners of the ZARE initiative have stood for transparent, certified, and environmentally sound waste disposal methods for years. For businesses, therefore, choosing a waste disposal partner is more important than ever: a matter of responsibility and legal certainty.
