BRUSSELS — The European Parliament has approved a new law creating seven additional garbage categories across the European Union. The decision aims to improve recycling and reduce waste pollution. Lawmakers said the reform would make Europe a “global leader in clean waste management.”
Under the new rules, households will now sort trash into ten groups instead of three. The new categories include textiles, electronic waste, mixed plastics, and food leftovers. The European Commission said the transition will start in 2026, giving member states time to adjust.
The European Environment Agency will monitor progress and publish annual reports at eea.europa.eu. Officials said the reform will also create new jobs in recycling and logistics.
According to Environment Commissioner Virginijus Sinkevičius, “every extra bin means a cleaner continent.” Environmental groups welcomed the decision, calling it “a step toward a waste-free Europe.” The law is part of the EU Green Deal framework available at europa.eu.
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