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EC Waste Framework Directive (Directive 2006/12/EC)

This directive establishes a framework for the management of waste across the European Community. It also defines certain terms such as 'waste', 'recovery' and 'disposal', to ensure a uniform approach is taken across the EU. It requires Member States to:

Give priority to waste prevention and encourage reuse and recovery of waste
Ensure waste is recovered or disposed of without endangering human health and without using processes which could harm the environment
Prohibit the uncontrolled disposal of waste and ensure waste management activities are permitted (unless specifically exempt)
Establish an integrated and adequate network of disposal installations
Prepare waste management plans
Ensure the cost of disposal is borne by the waste holder in accordance with the polluter pays principle
Ensure waste carriers are registered

The full text of the directive can be found at:

http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=OJ:L:2006:114:0009:0009:EN:PDF