The European Commission has just proposed the Environmental Omnibus package, a set of measures intended to simplify environmental legislation in the areas of industrial emissions, the circular economy, environmental assessments and geospatial data.

The goal is to cut red tape, foster green growth and support the EU's competitiveness and resilience - without watering down the EU's objectives on the environment and human health.

Key elements of the proposal relevant to the circular economy:

• Streamlined environmental assessments for granting permits in order to speed up projects deemed necessary for the EU economy. This includes those that contribute to resource efficiency.
• The Substances of Concern in Products database on hazardous substances in products will be discontinued, replaced by tools such as the Digital Product Passport.
• Simplified Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): European businesses will no longer need to appoint an authorised representative in every Member State where they are not established and where they do sell products to fulfil their EPR obligations.

More simplification is coming:

• EPR requirements will be streamlined even more by the Circular Economy Act, with a view to reducing the cost of doing business in the EU. This Act is intended to deliver simpler, harmonised rules and lower costs for cross-border circular activities.
• Guidance will be published on the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation to provide further clarity and harmonise implementation.