Summary
Details
- Italy
The decree is fully binding for all waste producers and packaging/ product manufacturers operating in Italy.
Companies must:
Comply with updated waste classifications.
Implement expanded separate collection and contract only authorised waste managers.
Participate in EPR schemes with updated fee structures.
Ensure traceability, updated documentation and proper labelling for packaging.
Exceptions:
Certain industrial by-products may fall outside the waste definition if meeting reuse criteria.
Small producers may face simplified recordkeeping depending on volume and type of waste.
Local authorities may grant transitional flexibility during the rollout of new collection systems.
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What’s Required
Legislative Decree 116/2020 updates Italy’s Environmental Code to align with the EU Circular Economy Package. It introduces significant reforms to waste classification, separate collection, recycling targets and extended producer responsibility (EPR).
Key obligations include:
New definitions for municipal waste, commercial waste and separate collection obligations.
Expanded mandatory separate collection (organic waste, textiles, oils, small waste streams).
Stronger recycling targets for municipal waste toward 2030–2035.
Updated packaging waste rules aligned with EU Directive 2018/852.
Reinforced EPR responsibilities, including eco-modulated fees and reporting duties.
Stricter waste traceability and transparency obligations for companies.
Important Deadlines
Most provisions apply from 2020 onwards, phasing through the early 2020s.
New separate collection obligations for textiles and oils begin in 2025.
Municipal waste recycling target: 55% by 2025, increasing further toward 2035.
Current Status
The decree is active and constitutes a major pillar of Italy’s circular economy framework.
Municipalities and EPR consortia continue updating systems to meet new EU targets.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Administrative fines for improper disposal, incorrect classification, missing separate collection or EPR non-compliance.
Potential criminal liability for serious waste crimes or illegal disposal.
Examples of Known Violations
Inspections frequently reveal incorrect waste classification and failure to comply with new separate collection rules.
Packaging producers have faced sanctions for non-payment of updated EPR contributions.
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