French Senate Proposes Enhancements to Circular Economy Law
French Senate seeks to enhance Agec law to strengthen circular economy efforts.
Key Points
- • Senate adopts a report with 11 proposals to strengthen the Agec law.
- • Focus on overcoming implementation challenges to meet waste reduction targets.
- • Targeted adaptations to improve clarity and support for stakeholders.
- • Senators emphasize the need for stronger governmental involvement.
On June 25, 2025, the French Senate's commission for land planning and sustainable development unanimously adopted a report that aims to strengthen the anti-waste law for a circular economy, known as the Agec law. This legislative effort includes 11 key proposals designed to reposition the government as a leader in circular economy initiatives and to address the challenges that have surfaced since the law's original passage five years ago.
Senators Marta de Cidrac (Les Républicains) and Jacques Fernique (Écologist Group) presented the report, emphasizing the urgency to meet the waste reduction targets mandated by the Agec law. They pointed out that a robust governmental role is essential for instilling confidence in the circular economy and overcoming hurdles faced by stakeholders. De Cidrac declared the intention to "give the circular economy policy a true industrial backbone," signifying the aim for a more structured approach to sustainable practices.
The Senators acknowledged that rather than a radical overhaul, the focus should be on implementing targeted adaptations to clarify existing provisions of the law. This approach is believed to address widespread misunderstandings and difficulties that businesses encounter under the current regulatory framework. Fernique noted that by enhancing clarity, they can create a more favorable environment for cooperation between the government and the various sectors involved in the circular economy.
This legislative move aligns with broader objectives of promoting sustainability and reducing waste across the nation. The modifications proposed are intended to not only enhance implementation strategies but also to bolster cooperation among stakeholders, thereby ensuring a more effective transition to a circular economy in France.
In summary, the French Senate is taking definitive steps to reinforce the Agec law, reaffirming its commitment to sustainable practices and demonstrating a proactive approach to overcoming previous limitations in the law's application, while fostering a reliable and supportive climate for the circular economy.