11:41 25 March 2025
Polish government planning to overhaul current waste recovery system
The Polish government plans to overhaul the current waste recovery system by replacing private packaging recovery organizations with a state-controlled entity, the National Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management (NFOŚiGW). This move would dissolve 20 private companies that have operated for over 20 years, handling waste collection for 100,000 firms.
Industry experts warn this transition could lead to a 300% cost increase, effectively imposing a new tax on businesses and consumers, fueling inflation. Concerns include constitutional rights violations, lack of compensation for private firms, and disruption of environmental education programs. The proposal will be discussed on March 18 by the parliamentary subcommittee on waste management. Critics advocate for system improvements rather than dismantling market-driven solutions.
(PAP)
