Last Updated:	January 5, 2010
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Introduction

In the European Union, the key legislative instrument regarding transboundary movement of waste, including electronic waste,  is Regulation 1013/2006 on Shipment of Waste.

The Regulation's controls differ depending on

(i) whether the shipments are for disposal or recovery, and, if so,

(ii) how the waste involved is listed, and

(iii) whether the shipment involves intra-EC or imports into or exports from the EC.  

Generally, the requirements for shipments for disposal resemble the prior authorization scheme of the Basel Convention on the Transboundary Shipment of Hazardous Waste. The requirements for shipments for recovery are based on the OECD Decision on the Transfrontier Movement of Waste for Recovery.  Where the shipment is subject to notification, the Regulation also requires a contract with the receiving facility and a financial guarantee.

The Regulation also sets forth contractual requirements to be observed by exporters and consignees of waste. 

The waste shipment regulation has direct effect in all Member States of the European Union.