The EU infringement proceedings against Greece and Cyprus have started in 2021. According to the European Commission, neither country has made enough progress in improving its waste management systems. In particular, they lack suitable facilities to treat waste before it goes to landfill.
Lack of facilities despite years to prepare
The Commission has referred both countries to the ECJ because they have failed to follow the EU Landfill Directive and the Waste Framework Directive. These rules require member states to treat waste properly before final disposal. They must also provide enough facilities to do so.
This legal action shows that countries may face further consequences if they fail to follow EU waste rules for a long time. Greece and Cyprus are not the only countries under pressure. Seven other EU Member States are also facing action over their compliance with the rules on waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE).
