The prevention plan in France: an overview of the most important aspects
Content:
- What is the legal basis for the plan and to whom does it apply?
- Objectives of the prevention plan in France
- How is the packaging prevention plan being implemented?
- What are the benefits of the prevention plan?
France has taken a groundbreaking step toward sustainable eco-design with a new regulation in its Circular Economy Act (AGEC). According to this development, all distributors of products in 12 different EPR areas are required to create prevention and eco-design plans. Eco-design, also known as ecological design or sustainable design, is a holistic approach that incorporates environmental impacts into the design process of products, services, and processes from the outset. We show you what you need to know.
What is the legal basis for the plan and to whom does it apply?
The implementation of these plans is based on the provisions of the AGEC Act of February 10, 2020, and Decree No. 2020-1455 on the reform of extended producer responsibility (EPR). According to Article 72 of the AGEC Act and Article L. 541-10-12 of the Environmental Code, manufacturers are required to submit a prevention plan. EPR obligations apply to 12 areas, including household packaging and graphic paper, batteries, waste electrical equipment, textiles, and furniture.
Objectives of the prevention plan in France
If you sell products in one or more of these areas in France, you are required to draw up a prevention plan. This plan should aim to reduce non-renewable materials, maximize recycled materials, and improve the recyclability of products. Eco-design goes beyond visions and implements concrete measures. The main objective is to create environmentally sustainable products and services that conserve resources, minimize waste, and reduce environmental impact throughout the entire life cycle. This approach takes into account all phases of product design, from material selection and manufacturing processes to use and disposal. France is considered a pioneer in the EU when it comes to relevant legal regulations.
How is the packaging prevention plan being implemented?
Since 2023, it has been mandatory for all distributors to draw up a plan to reduce the environmental impact of packaging and paper. The prevention plan can be drawn up collectively or individually. The three main topics that the plan must cover are the categories of reduce, recycle, and reuse. A follow-up report must be submitted every five years, containing a review of the previous plan and setting out the waste prevention and eco-design targets and measures that the manufacturer will implement over the next five years.
The submission and regular updating of these plans to the relevant take-back systems is mandatory after the respective deadlines have expired. A summary of the plans is published every three years by each system and made available to the public.
What are the benefits of the prevention plan?
The implementation of eco-design not only offers environmental benefits, but can also bring economic advantages by reducing material and energy costs, reducing licensing fees for sustainable packaging, and improving brand image. Eco-design is therefore a crucial approach for companies that want to offer sustainable products and services.