Glossary

EPR and sustainability, explained.

Plain-language definitions for EPR, waste management, and environmental compliance. No jargon, no filler.

What is the circular ocean?

Circular Ocean protects seas by reusing ocean resources, reducing plastic waste, promoting sustainable fishing, and encouraging recycling and innovation to keep oceans healthy and thriving.

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What is the cobalt recovery target?

Cobalt recovery targets set goals to recycle cobalt from waste, reducing mining harm, securing supply, and promoting a circular economy for cleaner, sustainable technology and resource use.

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What is the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP)?

The Common Fisheries Policy ensures sustainable fishing by setting catch limits, protecting marine life, supporting fishing communities, and promoting cooperation among EU countries for healthy oceans.

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What is the cost of litter cleanup (SUPD)?

Litter cleanup costs strain local budgets, often focusing on removal over prevention. Investing in education and enforcement can reduce litter, lowering expenses and boosting community health and sustainability.

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What is the Critical Raw Materials Act?

The Critical Raw Materials Act ensures the EU secures essential materials like lithium and cobalt through local extraction, recycling, and diverse suppliers to boost green tech and reduce reliance on imports.

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What is the crossed-out wheelie bin symbol?

The Crossed-Out Wheelie Bin Symbol means don’t toss electronics in regular trash. Recycle them properly to prevent pollution, recover materials, and support a cleaner, sustainable planet.

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What is the de minimis threshold in EPR?

The De Minimis Threshold in EPR sets a minimum product amount below which small producers are exempt from full recycling duties, balancing environmental care with fair, manageable business rules.

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What is the deposit return scheme (DRS)?

A Deposit Return Scheme adds a small deposit to drink containers, refunded when returned for recycling. It reduces litter, boosts recycling, saves resources, and supports a circular economy.

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What is the dual system in Germany?

Das Duale System in Deutschland verpflichtet Hersteller, Verpackungen zu sammeln und zu recyceln. Mit dem Grünen Punkt gekennzeichnet, fördert es Kreislaufwirtschaft, Ressourcenschutz und bessere Recyclingquoten.

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What is the due diligence obligation (EPR)?

Due Diligence Obligation under EPR means companies must ensure products are sustainably sourced, eco-friendly, and socially responsible throughout their lifecycle, including waste management.

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What is the EAR register (Germany – WEEE)?

The EAR Register ensures producers of electronics in Germany register to support proper recycling, reducing waste and pollution, and promoting a circular economy for better resource use.

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What is the Ellen MacArthur Foundation?

The Ellen MacArthur Foundation promotes the circular economy, encouraging reuse, repair, and recycling to reduce waste, protect resources, and fight climate change for a healthier planet.

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What is the ELV recovery target?

ELV Recovery Targets ensure old vehicles are recycled and reused responsibly, reducing waste and pollution while saving resources, supporting a circular economy and a cleaner environment.

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What is the ELV recycling target?

The ELV Recycling Target ensures old vehicles are recycled to recover metals and materials, reducing waste and pollution, saving resources, and supporting a circular economy for a greener future.

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What is the empty space ratio?

Empty Space Ratio shows how much unused space exists in an area or system, helping improve efficiency in nature, cities, packaging, and materials for better sustainability and less waste.

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What is the end-of-life vehicles directive?

The ELV Directive ensures old cars are safely recycled, reducing harmful waste and saving resources. It promotes eco-friendly car design and free, responsible disposal to protect the environment.

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What is the Environment Act 2021?

The Environment Act 2021 sets legal targets to protect nature, boosts recycling, stops plastic waste exports, and holds authorities accountable for a cleaner, greener UK future.

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What is the Environment Agency (UK)?

The Environment Agency protects England’s environment by regulating waste, managing water and flood risks, conserving wildlife, and supporting sustainability through research and policies.

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