The SUP Directive, or a half-whistle revolution
The SUP Directive, or a half-whistle revolution
Despite the fact that the provisions of the SUP Directive have been in place in Poland for more than a year and a half, the majority of Poles have not noticed any significant change in terms of packaging, plastic reduction or the availability of alternatives to disposables, according to the latest data presented in the first part of the 'In the Traps of Disposability' report, entitled 'The Curse of Single-Use Plastic', produced by Interzero.
The revolution has passed and hardly anyone has noticed - this is how, in a few soldierly words, one could summarise the effects of the so-called Single-Use Plastic Act (hereafter also: 'SUP Act' - from Single-Use Plastic) coming into force. Only 13 per cent of respondents, declared that they knew what the SUP Directive waswhat its objectives are, and what tools will be used to achieve them.
However, it is not the awareness of Poles per se that is the issue, but the low effectiveness of the mechanisms implemented in Poland that were supposed to encourage waste prevention and product reuse. One of these is the imposition of an additional charge on plastic packaging, in force since 1 January 2024, which was supposed to - like in the case of advertising bags, for which we have been paying for several years - encourage us to use reusable packaging for drinks and food.
The snag, That 42 per cent of respondents never even noticed these additional charges. In contrast, as much as 56 per cent systematically ignore them because they are usually low enough in relation to the amount on the receipt (on average a few tens of pennies, the most being around PLN 2 per item) that they do not encourage people to give up the convenience that the vast majority of respondents see in disposable packaging. "You don't have to wash them, return them to any point or return them to a restaurant, or carry them with you in case of spontaneous decisions to order a takeaway meal," respondents also pointed out during in-depth focus research conducted independently by Opinia24.
Multiple use - still little incentive
Unfortunately, it is also a fiction from the respondents' perspective to offer an alternative type of packaging in catering establishments. It appears that this obligation is implemented more in theory than in practice - the The vast majority of respondents (79 per cent) have never encountered the option of choosing different, more environmentally friendly packaging in a restaurant or when ordering takeaway. Only one in four consumers has ever encountered information about the legally guaranteed (just under the SUP Directive) reusable packaging alternative.
This was directly confirmed by the respondents themselves - "Only choice about cutlery, whether you want extra plastic. That's the only choice I have in the application. When I come and take away, nobody asks me either. Alternatively, whether to give a net or take in my hand," said one qualitative research participant.
- "Usually there is no such option, it is just one option available at a particular place. For example, the 'Chinese' has their containers, the pizzeria has their pizza boxes and no one asks if we want anything else. I have not encountered a choice," echoed the other.
- "[...] I will say frankly that since 1 July, I have ordered many times, more than 15 times or more, and no one either in the premises or on the phone has offered me anything like that," - indicated another respondent.
What does discarded packaging say about us?
In the first part of the report 'In the traps of reusability', entitled 'The curse of single-use plastic', we also read a lot about the eating habits of Poles: what they order most often, where and how they order (by phone, app, in person), what they pay attention to when they look at the packaging they are offered, and what they think about reusable packaging.
And these are just some of the findings from the qualitative and quantitative research to help diagnose and describe the state of implementation of the single-use plastics directive in Poland. The qualitative research involved interviews with 24 people, the quantitative CAWI research was conducted on a nationwide representative sample of 1,000 people. You can read the entire publication here: https://ekobezkantow.pl/raporty/w-pulapkach-jednorazowosci/
About Eco without the corners
In 'Eco without the squiggles', we talk about ecology without bending the truth. We deal with myths, fake news and half-truths. Our aim is to explain why waste should be separated, not just how to do it properly.
"Eco without a corner" was born out of the belief that in a world full of misinformation and greenwashing, a reliable source of accurate information is needed. We cover topics such as sustainability, recycling, GOZ and legislation related to waste management. We discuss the environmental impact of packaging, batteries and electro-waste, as well as how to reuse them as valuable resources.
New EPR regulations in Austria | Authorised representative
EPR legislation in Austria: from 2023 mandatory licensing of packaging and establishment of an authorised representative
Polish entrepreneurs selling products and packaging to Austria should be on guard - as of 1 January 2023, the country has introduced EPR regulations, which are the equivalent of the Polish ROP. They centre around 2 main issues: packaging licensing and the establishment of an authorised representative in Austria. How to implement the obligations under the EPR? We suggest.
As of 2023, new EPR (VVO) regulations have come into force in Austria
With the start of 2023, the following became effective in Austria the new extended producer responsibility provisions, known as EPR provisions (English. Extended Producer Responsibility). They impose a number of environmental obligations on businesses selling products to Austria, with the aim of increasing the recycling rate of packaging and product waste and minimising the environmental impact of businesses' activities.
Selling products to Austria? Here are your obligations under the EPR (VVO) regulations
From 1 January 2023, entrepreneurs not established in Austria who place certain categories of packaging and products on the Austrian market must meet stringent legal requirements.
According to the Austrian EPR regulations, every introducer is obliged to:
- registration with the Austrian Federal Environment Agency (the equivalent of the Polish BDO registration),
- the submission of periodic reports on the quantities or weights of products and packaging introduced,
- participation in the waste collection and recycling system in Austria,
- to pay a licence fee depending on the type and quantity of packaging or products placed on the Austrian market.
Importantly, traders cannot carry out these obligations alone - not being based in Austria means that must appoint an authorised representative in Austria (Bevollmächtigten), who will carry out the duties of an introducer on their behalf and be responsible for liaising with local authorities.
Who is affected by the EPR regulations in Austria?
The obligations under the EPR concern each company not established in Austria, which sells to Austrian customers the following product categories:
- packaging, including product packaging, transport packaging and shipping packaging,
- electronic and electrical equipment (EEE),
- batteries and accumulators.
The new rules apply to businesses based in any EU country as well as those based outside the EU. They are mainly aimed at companies that offer their products on sales platforms, e.g. eBay, Amazon, Zalando.
The obligations of the introducer set out in the EPR regulations must therefore be fulfilled:
- importers of packaged products, equipment and batteries and accumulators for the Austrian market,
- traders selling packaging, packaged products, equipment and batteries directly to consumers in Austria using their own online shops or online sales platforms.
The EPR regulations do not provide for quantitative exemptions - The establishment of an authorised representative in Austria is an obligation for every introducer, even if they only sell a few products or packages covered by the EPR into Austria.
Do you already have an authorised representative in Austria? Sign a contract with Interzero!
The Interzero Group has been providing professional, comprehensive environmental services to clients in every industry for more than 30 years. We are present in 10 countries, including Austria, where we we take over responsibilities from our clients relating to, among other things, licensing, waste management and recycling.
As an authorised representative of your company, we will take care of:
- registration of your company in the relevant authorities,
- packaging licensing launched on the Austrian market,
- reporting, i.e. the preparation and submission of all reports required by EPR regulations in Austria,
- the provision of waste management arising from packaging and products introduced by your company into the Austrian market,
- representation of your company before the Austrian authorities in all matters relating to introduced products or packaging.
By signing one contract, you will hand over to us all of your responsibilities for the introduction of packaging, electrical and electronic equipment and packaging and batteries onto the Austrian market.
How do I make Interzero an authorised representative of my company?
- Register with our online portal and complete your company details.
- Select the scope of duties we are to carry out on behalf of your company. Remember that packaging, electrical equipment and batteries can be covered by one contract.
- Indicate the quantities/masses of packaging and products entering the Austrian market.
- Follow the further instructions and confirm the conclusion of the contract.
Find out more about the authorised representative service and packaging licensing in austria.
FAQ
Find out the answers to the most common questions about establishing an authorised representative and packaging licensing in Austria.
The authorised representative is company representative who takes over upon oneself implementation of the introducer's obligations packaging and products for the Austrian market.
The obligation to appoint an authorised representative in Austria applies to entrepreneurs who:
- place packaging, packaged products, electrical and electronic equipment or batteries and accumulators on the Austrian market, selling them to individual consumers (consumers, individuals),
and at the same time
- are not based in Austria.
Traders placing packaging and packaged products on the Austrian market are required to appoint an authorised representative of the from 1 January 2023
Introducers of electrical and electronic equipment and batteries and accumulators are obliged to appoint an authorised representative in Austria respectively from 2018 and 2019.
The company's authorised representative in Austria can be any natural or legal person, which:
- has its registered office or delivery address in Austria,
- is registered with BMK (Bundesministerium für Klimaschutz, Umwelt, Energie, Mobilität, Innovation und Technologie).
The prerequisite for appointing an entity as an authorised representative of your company is the granting of a power of attorney with a notarised signature.
The task of your company's authorised representative in Austria is to realise all obligations of the introducer under the VVO (German: Versicherungsverband Österreich) and EPR, i.e. from the provisions on extended producer liability.
Introducer duties carried out by the authorised representative in Austria include:
- registration of the company with the Austrian Federal Environment Agency,
- the submission of cyclical reports on the quantities or weights of products and packaging placed on the Austrian market,
- joining one of the waste collection and recycling systems in Austria,
- annual payment of a licence fee for the packaging and products introduced.
The authorised representative does not pay the licence fee - in addition to the fee for appointing an authorised representative, each company is also obliged to pay a packaging licensing fee, which the authorised representative merely passes on to the relevant authorities.
The full catalogue of obligations for each product group can be found in the following legislative acts:
- Packaging and packaged products - Sections 16a to 16d of the Packaging Ordinance,
- Batteries - § 25a to 25c Batteries-VO,
- waste electrical equipment - section 13a of the Waste Management Act 2002 (AWG 2002), sections 21a to 21c of the EAG-VO.
The Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations in Austria include:
- packaging and packaged goods,
- electrical and electronic equipment,
- batteries and accumulators.
Yes. According to the EPR regulations in Austria, only an entity with legal personality can be an authorised representative. Branches of companies, on the other hand, do not have legal personality.
Participate in the training course "Deposit system - regulatory changes introduced by the amendment of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Management Act".
Participate in the training course "Deposit system - regulatory changes introduced by the amendment of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Management Act".
Amendment to the Packaging and Packaging Waste Management Act
The Packaging and Packaging Waste Management Act of 13 June 2013 introduced provisions for the inclusion of certain beverage packaging in a deposit scheme. The deposit systems were to be launched, in accordance with the provisions of this law, from January 2025. However, in order for them to function properly, a number of additional amendments to the Act proved necessary, in line with demands made, among others, by entrepreneurs introducing packaged beverages.
What will we talk about during the training?
The training will discuss the changes to the provisions of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Management Act of 13 June 2013 introduced by the Amendment Act passed in December 2024, including, among others, the postponement of the launch of deposit schemes and the consequences thereof, changes to the drinks covered by the deposit scheme, changes to the way deposits are collected, the inclusion of unclaimed deposits in VAT.
The exact scope of the topic:
- Clarification of the provisions for obtaining authorisations to set up bail schemes.
- Exclusion of milk and milk product packaging from deposit schemes.
- Making the collection of deposits mandatory at each stage of the sale of packaged beverages.
- Enabling so-called reverse logistics by vendors.
- Obligation for operators of commercial units with an area of 200 m2 or less to collect reusable glass packaging.
- Subject to VAT on the unclaimed deposit.
- Postponement of the launch of bail systems
The training will be led by: Pawel Sosnowski, Board Commissioner for Environmental Regulation at Interzero
Registration link HERE
Who should take part?
The webinar is primarily aimed at:
- Entrepreneurs introducing packaged beverages
- Environmental specialists
- Persons responsible for packaging waste management in retail chains
- Anyone interested in the latest legal regulations on packaging management
You are cordially invited to attend the webinar!
Registration for lasts until: 16 January 2025 by 8:00 am.
What happened in November? Read Interzero's summary of the last month
What happened in November? Read Interzero's summary of the last month
Speeches at industry events, training courses and campaigns and educational workshops - even though the end of the year is approaching and the holiday spirit is already in the air, we at Interzero are still going strong. We would like to invite you to read a summary of November in the Interzero Group in Poland, in which we briefly outline the most important events of the past month.
Interzero Environmental Sustainability Dashboard with international GRI Assurance certification
Environmental Sustainability Dashboard from Interzero is now licensed by the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI)! This is another step for us to make ESG reporting simple and accessible to every company. At the same time, we want our tool to be reliable. Through the GRI Licensing Software & Tools Program, GRI ensures that our Environmental Sustainability Dashboard accurately and efficiently addresses GRI standards, based on best practices. The key benefits of our programme are accurate sustainability reporting, helping you meet legislation and attracting stakeholders - through robust and transparent reporting. We are almost certain that even companies that will not be subject to ESG reporting will need to keep records if they want to work with larger entities.
Business and carbon neutrality - Interzero in external debates
This month Interzero had the pleasure of be a guest speaker at the ITTF Warsaw international trade fair, that is, at one of the largest events in the travel industry, where partners involved in the development and promotion of the sector come together. Our representative, Managing Director at Interzero Przemysław Kuna, took part in a panel entitled "The impact of supplier selection on the carbon neutrality of business travel. How sustainability policies affect business travel management'. Przemysław advocated that industry players who have not yet taken an interest in ESG should not be crossed out. The speakers talked not only about business travel, but also about fleet electrification and infrastructure in Poland.
In addition, Przemyslaw also took part in the debate Rzeczpospolitaej: "How to reconcile fire and water, i.e. the needs of business and cities vis-à-vis the ROP during the mobilisation of work on the law".held in the editorial office of the daily newspaper as part of the 'Fight for Climate' series. Our expert took a concrete stance - as Interzero, we are in favour of a free market and transparent extended producer responsibility model. Everyone wants to know what they are paying for and why. We do not want entrepreneurs to become mere objects on which further financial obligations can be imposed. We encourage you to read the article summarising the debate here.
On-the-job training - WIOŚ control no longer intimidating!
At the end of November, Łukasz Pachucki conducted a classroom training course at our headquarters in Łódź for the second time, this time under the title 'Environmental inspection control in a company'. We are very pleased that we were able to carry out this project in more intimate groups. The exchange of knowledge, experience and the opportunity to ask any questions to an expert allows for an in-depth study of the topic. The companies whose employees attended the training already know every step of the inspection, and thanks to the Q&A session and the opportunity to consult with our expert after the training, they have guidelines and plans in place to ensure that the inspection of the WIOŚ goes smoothly. We would like to thank the presenter for the substantive workshop and all the participants for their confidence - we hope to see you at future classroom trainings!
At the intersection of culture and sustainable development - workshops and campaigns
On the initiative of the Interzero Environmental Education Team, in cooperation with the Foundation Bęc Zmiana, a workshop entitled "Architecture of Waste" took place on 23 November in a Warsaw theatre.. Among the topics of the meeting were the new waste regulations. These are inextricably linked to the creation of appropriate urban, housing and communication spaces. Through the prism of their own experiences from many sectors, the participants generated ideas for new solutions which could, for example: help consumers to be active in the deposit system. Architects Michał Sikorski and Petro Vladimirov and artist Zofia Strumiłło-Sukiennik were invited to the workshop. The choice was not accidental - each of the presenters tackles the subject of waste in a different way. The workshop was part of the series 'Laboratory of Happiness Research. Life after comfort", an art and research project.
On 29 November, the Museum of Photography in Krakow hosted the debate "Look! Does it work?", which focused on the topic of social campaigns about waste. This was a continuation of Interzero's collaboration with this cultural institution. The pretext for the talk was Interzero's research 'Between the pluses and the minuses' and 'We pack in the trouble', which indicates that young adults are less engaged with environmental issues. Speakers included: Alicja Waszkiewicz-Raviv who is scientifically involved in visual communication and campaign effectiveness, Dominika Lenkowska-Piechocka, founder of the agency Who Will Save The Planet, and Edyta Mantorska - head of the Environmental Education Team at Interzero. The debate was preceded by a workshop aimed at young people.
We ended the month by partnering with BWA Wrocław on the 'Limited Exhibition' project. At 9-10 Kościuszki Square in the Lower Silesian capital, seven sculptures by Kasia Fudakowski will be on display until 16 February. One of the main motifs of the exhibition is the theme of limited resources in the context of production; the artist was inspired to create the exhibition by her reflections on how 'culture and art are inextricably linked to the energy resources available on Earth and the power structures that dispose of these resources'. The artist has ceded control of the exhibition to the public while simultaneously limiting the energy that powers it. The question, then, is whether every visitor will be able to see the exhibition in the same form. Interzero's Environmental Education team has prepared an educational programme in collaboration with the institution in December that relates fully to the topic of electro-waste.
Body, mind and ecology - or how to recharge your batteries with Interzero
November saw the conclusion of the social campaign "Recharge your batteries", which had been running since September as part of the Eco Without Borders project, under the substantive patronage of the Malgosia Braunek Be Foundation and in collaboration with the Mindy app. During the project, a series of free webinars was held where participants had the chance to meet online with independent experts. Among other things, we talked about ecopsychology, the benefits of forest bathing, somatic practices to relieve stress and a healthy diet for the body and the planet. In addition, participants were able to gain premium access to the Mindy app by posting photos of themselves disposing of batteries on their social media with the hashtag #naladujswojebaterie.
November was a month full of mainly educational as well as socio-cultural events. We would like to thank all Interzero employees involved in the aforementioned activities, as well as the partners for inviting us to collaborate - joint intersectional workshops and debates are something that always bring people together and provide more opportunities for development and wider education of the public about the essence of sustainability.
Black Week at Interzero Academy - Online environmental training with 50% discount!
Black Week at Interzero Academy - Online environmental training with 50% discount!
It's time for the biggest promotion of the year! Black Week at Interzero Academy is the perfect opportunity to gain the knowledge and skills you need in the environmental industry at exceptional discounts. From 25 November to 29 November only, all our online training courses will be discounted by half!
Why choose Interzero Academy?
Interzero specialises in providing integrated environmental services. Our mission is to support companies in achieving sustainability through innovative solutions and education. Interzero Academy is a platform that offers a wide range of training courses tailored to the needs of environmental professionals.
What do you find in our offer?
- Waste management training - Learn how to effectively manage your company's waste and know your responsibilities.
- Environmental compliance training - Make sure your business is compliant with the latest regulations. Find out more about ROP, battery regulation, PPWR or the bail system.
- Training on air protection and waste water management - Gain knowledge of environmental reporting. Make sure you have the necessary permits and are operating in accordance with the law.
How to take advantage of the promotion?
It's easy! Just visit our website Interzero Academy the last week of November and select the training courses you are interested in. All online training courses on the website will be cheaper by 50%. Don't miss this unique opportunity - the promotion only runs from 25 to 29 november 2024!
Why invest in Interzero Academy training?
An investment in knowledge is an investment in the future. Through our training courses, you will not only gain new skills but also a competitive advantage in the market. Interzero Academy is a quality guarantee that will help you achieve peace of mind in terms of compliance with environmental obligations. The knowledge you acquire will allow your company to avoid administrative penalties that may be imposed when a company significantly affects the environment.
Don't wait! Join the ranks of satisfied participants in our training courses and take advantage of the unique Black Week offer at Interzero Academy.
MTP Gold Medal and Eco Prize for Interzero bottle dispensers - POLECO 2024 summary
Eco Prize and MTP Gold Medal - Interzero at POLECO 2024
On 15-17 October, the Interzero team was present at the International Trade Fair for Environmental Protection in Poznań. At our stand, specialists in waste management, eco-equipment and tools supporting a closed-loop economy answered your questions. Services from our portfolio were of great interest to visitors. We invite you to read our coverage of the event. Today we would like to tell you a little more about the trade fair and in some way summarise this amazing time.
POLECO 2024 - how was it?
It is worth noting that POLECO, an event with a 35-year tradition, attracts at least several thousand participants every year. Those who attend the trade fair have the chance to learn about the latest industry trends and future legislative changes. By showcasing new equipment, service ideas and innovations from around the world, it is possible to work together towards sustainable development on an international level. Low-carbon transformation, the deposit system, sustainable building standards, easy segregation - these are just a selection of the topics that were covered at the fair - at exhibitor stands and on panel discussions. In 2024, more than 200 exhibitors from 8 countries showed up in Poznań! A unique opportunity to establish valuable business relationships.
Sielaff SiCompact ECO M has won the MTP Gold Medal and the Eco Prize!
For many years, Interzero has actively supported entrepreneurs in the implementation of new green technologies in their companies. That is why we are extremely proud of the awards we have won. Our Sielaff SiCompact ECO M was awarded the Gold Medal of the MTP Trade Fair and the Eco Prize! These extremely prestigious awards, which, according to the judges' criteria, mean that the bottle machines are highly innovative and have a real impact on recycling. Also in 2022in another device from the SiCompact series impressed the judges.
The Sielaff SiCompact ECO M is a bottle machine that collects and segregates: glass, PET and aluminium. All this in a unit occupying just 1.09m2 of space, with additional advanced technology with plug-and-play installation based on 230 V. We would like to thank the jury for once again trusting and appreciating Interzero eco-devices. We hope that in a few months or so, the sight of our bottle dispensers in retail chains or office buildings will be an everyday occurrence!
Congratulations also to the other award-winning exhibitors.
What else besides the prizes?
At our stand this year, you could also see the PEL BriteBin equipment, the POLECO 2023 medal-winning Oklin GG-02, the Bin-e with a 50-inch screen, and test the POLECO 2022 medal-winning SiCompact 2020 XL bottling machine. There is no denying that the hot topic at the fair was ESG. Mandatory reporting is ahead of us, so it is hardly surprising. One of our innovative solutions attracted attention at our stand - the Environmental Sustainability Dashboard. It is a tool that enables the recording and optimisation of environmental indicators within a company. Its overall objective is to smooth the transformation of companies towards sustainability. We were pleased to present this solution at the fair, pointing out its advantages. Firstly, the Environmental Sustainability Dashboard works for any company - large or small. Secondly, customers get easy access to complex data such as energy consumption, water consumption, waste management, etc. Thirdly - our programme is fully compliant with the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the European Single Reporting System (ESRS), and has also recently been licensed by the Global Reporting Initiative. If at this point you are not yet prepared for the entry of ESG into business, we recommend downloading our free guide. Reliable information in a nutshell!
Thanks - until next year!
At the very end, we would like to say a big thank you to all the Interzero experts who took part in the fair and the preparations for it. Not only those who were there in person, but everyone involved in making the event happen! Our employees have been striving for years to improve the environmental situation in the country. Thanks to their experience, new technologies are being developed that cleverly chase (sometimes sudden) legislative changes. We would also like to thank all the exhibitors and organisers of POLECO 2024. We look forward to another memorable edition!
Visit our eco-equipment catalogue, available on the website: https://ekourzadzenia.interzero.pl/.
Join Interzero - Let's create a world without waste together!
Join Interzero - Let's create a world without waste together!
Interzero, a developer of integrated environmental services, is looking for new talent is looking for ambitious and committed people to join its team. If you want to work for a company that focuses on innovation and sustainability, we have the perfect positions for you to choose from.
We are currently recruiting for the following positions:
- Customer Service Specialist (Customer Service Specialist) | Warsaw
- Key Account Manager (Recycling) | Warsaw
- Key Account Manager (Recycling) | Krakow
- Key Account Manager (Secondary raw materials and waste market) | Warsaw
- Key Account Manager (Secondary raw materials and waste market) | Krakow
- Administration Specialist | Kraków
- Junior specialist for BDO system support | Kraków
Why join Interzero?
- Mission and Values:Interzero is a company that strives to create a world without waste. Our mission is to minimise our environmental impact through innovative recycling and waste management solutions.
- Professional Development:We offer extensive opportunities for professional and personal development. At Interzero, we value creativity and initiative, supporting our employees in reaching their full potential.
- Working in a Team:When you join us, you become part of a dynamic and close-knit team that works together to achieve ambitious goals. Cooperation and mutual support are the foundations of our organisational culture.
- Innovative Projects:We work on innovative projects that have a real environmental impact. Your commitment and ideas can contribute to creating a more sustainable future. See for yourself what we offer companies: https://interzero.pl/uslugi/
- Stability and Security:Interzero is a stable employer that offers attractive employment conditions and a benefits package. We care about our employees, providing them with comfortable working conditions and development opportunities.
If you are ready for new challenges and want to contribute to creating a better world, join Interzero! Together we can achieve more and realise our vision of a world without waste.
Get a practical guide - Sustainability reporting: towards implementing CSRD
Get a practical guide - Sustainability reporting: towards implementing CSRD
How does the CSRD on corporate reporting affect your organisation's operations?
5 January 2023. The European Commission (EC) has published the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) following the review process of the Non-Financial Reporting Directive (NFRD). The CSRD is a key element of the EU's package of sustainability measures, including sustainable finance aspects, which include a comprehensive set of measures to improve the flow of capital towards sustainable activities across the EU. Accordingly, the objective of the CSRD is to improve sustainability reporting in order to tap the potential of the European single market and contribute to the transition to a fully sustainable and inclusive economic and financial system, in line with the European Green Deal (European Green Deal) and the Sustainable Development Goals (Sustainable Development Goals) of the United Nations.
The content of the document covers the following areas:
- Introduction to CSRD,
- Reporting schedule,
- Interzero's support in ESG reporting,
- Communicating sustainability,
- Operational steps,
- Environmental, social, governance, digitalisation and security factors.
To download the document, complete the form:
Recycling is about conserving resources: Interzero has saved primary raw materials equivalent to the textiles consumed by 28.6 million EU citizens
Recycling is about conserving resources: Interzero has saved primary raw materials equivalent to the textiles consumed by 28.6 million EU citizens
Fraunhofer UMSICHT study shows positive environmental impact of recycling Interzero saved approximately 1.2 million tonnes of greenhouse gases and 11.1 million tonnes of primary resources in 2023. Europe's leading provider of closed-loop solutions is developing textile recycling, the potential of which provides incredible support for the protection of our climate and natural resources.
Berlin/Cologne
More recycling, less waste of resources: Recycling of raw materials is an effective lever against the exploitation of our planet and prevents further escalation of the climate crisis. This is evidenced by the results of the "resources SAVED by recycling" report published by Interzero: Europe's leading provider of closed-loop economy services, Interzero prevented a total of 1.2 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions in 2023 by recycling around 2.5 million tonnes of recyclable materials. This corresponds to the annualCO2 emissions generated by 4.5 million EU citizens through textile consumption alone. At the same time, Interzero and its customers were able to save more than 11.1 million tonnes of primary resources. This amount is comparable to the amount of raw materials consumed by around 28.6 million people in the EU in one year through textile consumption*.
"When we look at the potential for textile recycling, it becomes clear that it has huge environmental potential - this also shows how important it is to accelerate the transformation of the economy to a circular model at all levels." says Dr Axel Schweitzer, CEO and partner of Interzero. "This applies in particular to recyclable materials that are not yet consistently subjected to this process."
"We want to close the textile circuit in cooperation with the industry and use our experience as an established system service provider to develop a holistic concept for collection, sorting and recycling." - says Dr. Axel Schweitzer. "In this way, we are relieving the burden on the environment and helping companies to position themselves in a closed loop, i.e. in a sustainable and competitive way."
In contrast to the recycling of other products (e.g. packaging), in terms of technology and development, textile recycling is still in its infancy: Every year, around 92 million tonnes of textiles are discarded worldwide. So far, only one per cent of this huge material flow goes into fibre recycling and thus back into the production cycle.
The greatest pressure is currently coming from time - new EU legislation, such as the separate collection obligation or the envisaged producer responsibility for textiles (EPR), will already come into force in 2025; pressure on producers is also coming from regional governments - the German government's national strategy for a circular economy (NKWS) is an example.
Education as a key element in conscious transformation
For more than 15 years, Interzero has ensured that the environmental impact of recycling has been independently and scientifically verified in order to inform, educate and make a solid case for the economic transformation towards closed-loop recycling. The annual environmental performance report published by the Fraunhofer Institute for Environmental, Safety and Energy Technology (UMSICHT) reflects the long-term effect of Interzero's work - and helps our customers to communicate transparently about sustainability. For its comprehensive commitment to this cause, Interzero was awarded the German Sustainability Award 2024 in the category of waste management and recycling, as well as a special award in the field of resource transformation.
About Interzero
Interzero is a European leader in environmental protection and the circular economy. It introduces innovative solutions to its customers that increase the efficiency of raw material use and minimise the adverse impact of companies on the environment. Interzero specialises in the closing of raw material cycles and comprehensive recycling services, environmental consulting and environmental education. The company designs and implements solutions in the spirit of the circular economy, preventing the waste of raw materials and optimising waste management. Interzero's experts support entrepreneurs at every stage: from the optimisation of recovery and recycling processes, through audits and training, to the implementation of composting machines, bottle machines and remotely managed waste bins. All of these activities facilitate the implementation of changes towards a modern, closed-loop economy.
*These comparisons are based on data from the European Parliament.
The Interzero 2024 Environmental Conference is behind us - what was discussed in Sopot?
The Interzero 2024 Environmental Conference is behind us - what was discussed in Sopot?
On 18-20 September, the Sheraton Hotel in Sopot hosted the The 11th edition of the Interzero Environmental Conference, which was held under the motto Pillars of circularity. The event brought together a wide range of environmental experts, sustainability and GOZ industry leaders and business representatives. Participants at this year's event had the opportunity to listen to dozens of interesting lectures and 2 debates discussing the threats and opportunities presented by the bail-in system and PPWR.
Business in the face of legislative change the theme of the Interzero Environmental Conference
The agenda for this year's Interzero Environmental Conference was dominated by issues relating to the latest regulations that will reshape the environmental industry in the coming months and years. These include, of course deposit scheme, extended producer responsibility (ROP), the PPWR and non-financial ESG reporting.
As a recovery organisation and a leader in the environmental industry, we want to create as many opportunities as possible to discuss current issues and future challenges posed by the legislator. Our aim is to actively participate in shaping a new realitywhich will be governed by the principles of extended producer responsibility. Through events such as the Interzero Environmental Conference, we can drive the debate, give the floor to the most eminent experts and show the effects of new legislation from different, even rather non-obvious, perspectives. - says Agata Ryś, Member of the Management Board of Interzero.
In a similar vein was the lecture given by Paweł Lesiak, Interzero's Executive Vice President, in which he outlined his point of view on the changes that will take place in business and the environment as a result of running PPWR. He also mentioned Interzero's mission, which is to support and relieve the burden on businesses in meeting current and future environmental obligations, albeit those related to the product levy and the implementation of educational campaigns. It was an excellent introduction and also a starting point for the debate PPWR - how much will it cost us?which warmed up the experts and guests gathered at the Sheraton Sopot on the second day of the Conference. The PPWR regulation was also the subject of a lecture by Pavel Sosnowski, Board Agent for Environmental Regulation at Interzero. In his presentation PPWR, or new waste management solutions Interzero's expert detailed the effects that the replacement of the current Packaging Directive with the recently enacted PPWR will have.
Technology and zero waste as the titular Pillars of circularity
As a break from the peri-legislative subject matter, there were talks on solutions, services and tools that bring the environmental industry into the 21st century. and support entrepreneurs in meeting their environmental obligations. In her presentation, Hanna Walczak, Standards Implementation Manager from GS1 Poland, introduced the database for the deposit system, and Marta Szymborska, Head Of Marketing Communications, PR & ESG from GS1 Poland, showed how to data and figures can drive sustainable development. During a talk by Lukasz Czarnowski, Digital Sales Cross Country Function Head Management at Interzero, we learned about the role of digitalisation in optimising waste management. One of the examples he mentioned of innovation in waste management was Interzero waste platform, i.e. intuitive online tool to simplify reporting, management of waste streams and facilitating control of waste management revenues and costs.
An extremely interesting speech, especially in the context of the keynote of the Pillars of the Environment Conference circularity was a presentation by Wiktoria Płocha, Sustainability Leader at IKEA Retail Sp. z o.o., who discussed where circularity actually begins and showed how our thinking about 'second-hand' items has changed over the years. Agnieszka Oleksyn-Wajda, Director of the Institute for Sustainable Development and Environment at Lazarski University, even described this change as a Zero Waste trend, echoed by, among others, the EU strategy for sustainable fashion.
Substantive discussion of the bail system at the 2024 Environmental Conference
The climax of the first day of the Interzero Environmental Conference was a discussion on the opportunities and threats to the economy from the imminent launch of the bail system. Moderated by journalist Monica Richardson The debate was attended by both business representatives: Dariusz Lizak, President of the National Chamber of Commerce "Bottling Industry", Paweł Sosnowski, Board Representative for Environmental Regulations from Interzero and Joanna Szubielska, Senior Manager for Quality Assurance and Health & Safety | Eurocash S.A., as well as representatives of the environmental protection industry: Joanna Leoniewska-Gogola, Deputy Director Sustainability Consulting Central Europe from Deloitte Advisory Sp. z o.o., Sp. K Maria Andrzejewska, Director General at UNEP/GRID-Warszawa.
Interzero's signature events have always provided a wealth of knowledge and the opportunity for heated discussions among top experts. In this context I am very pleased with the very high attendance and the presence of specialists from different fields to join the discussion and share their thoughts with a wider audience. I was also positively surprised by the level of substance of both debates - while it might seem that almost everything has been said about the bail system and PPWR, the our guests demonstrated that the environmental industry still faces a multitude of challenges and even more problems that will consume us in the coming years. - says Lukasz Czarnowski of Interzero.
Sustainability as an inspiration for business and an opportunity for the environment
During the Interzero Environmental Conference, Jacek Płaza, Chief Sustainability Officer at Decathlon Poland, and Mateusz Grupa, E-mobility manager at BMW Group Polska, also got the chance to present sustainable practices in their companies. The guests gathered in the hall thus had the opportunity to convince themselves, whether waste can be reduced and new business models developed at the same time and learn the facts and myths about electromobility, which often contradict the image created by the mass media.
Przemysław Kuna, Managing Director of Interzero, also referred to the topic of electromobility and, more specifically, to the notorious batteries in his speech, talking about the new battery regulation, which is already knocking on the doors of EU Member States.
Such a great event would of course not have taken place without the support of our partners and the huge commitment of all the speakers and participants in the debate. I would like to thank them warmly for this year's cooperation and at the same time invite them to the next, 12th edition of the Conference. Environmentalthe date of which will be announced shortly. - said Lukasz Czarnowski in conclusion.
About the Environmental Conference
The Environmental Conference is an annual event that has been bringing together environmental experts and business representatives for years. During the 2-day talks and lectures, participants have the opportunity to broaden their knowledge of current legislation and its interpretation, learn about news from the environmental industry and about non-obvious issues related to ecology and sustainability. The Interzero Environmental Conference is also an opportunity to make new contacts with industry representatives and to exchange experiences with event participants.
And we will soon be meeting at #KŚ2025! More information will be available soon at events.interzero.pl