Introduction
The European waste management sector is undergoing rapid transformation driven by digitalization, ESG pressures, and ambitious circular economy objectives. Three elements are becoming essential for companies, authorities, and logistics operators:
- DIWASS – Digital Waste Shipment System, the new EU platform for notifying and monitoring waste shipments.
- Regulation (EU) 2024/1157, replacing Regulation 1013/2006 and reshaping rules for waste imports, exports, and intra-EU transfers.
- Regulation 333/2011, the EU framework defining End of Waste (EoW) criteria for recycled ferrous and non-ferrous metals.
1. DIWASS – Digital Waste Shipment System: What It Is and How It Works
What is DIWASS?
DIWASS is the European Union’s unified digital platform for managing waste shipments. It becomes mandatory with the implementation of Regulation (EU) 2024/1157 and replaces paper-based procedures, emails, and fragmented national systems.
Objectives of DIWASS
- full digitalization of notifications and approvals;
- real-time traceability of shipments;
- reduction of fraud and illegal exports;
- interoperability between authorities across all Member States.
What types of shipments are handled through DIWASS?
- intra-EU shipments requiring notification;
- exports to OECD and non-OECD countries;
- imports into the EU;
- Annex VII documents for Green List waste.
Impact on companies
- registration in the platform;
- digitalization of internal documentation workflows;
- integration with ERP or logistics systems;
- staff training on new procedures.
2. Regulation (EU) 2024/1157 – The New Framework for Waste Shipments
Regulation 2024/1157 represents the most significant reform of EU waste shipment legislation in the last 20 years. Its goal is to limit problematic exports, strengthen recycling within the EU, and increase transparency.
Major changes introduced
- Strict bans on exporting plastic waste to non-OECD countries.
- Additional conditions for exports to OECD countries, including mandatory audits.
- Shorter approval timelines for notifications.
- Full digitalization through DIWASS.
- Strengthened border controls.
- Clearer responsibilities for operators.
What remains unchanged?
- waste classification under EU codes;
- use of Annex VII for Green List waste;
- the principle of extended producer responsibility.
Implications for Romania
- integration of national authorities with DIWASS;
- updated control procedures;
- training for economic operators.
3. Regulation 333/2011 – End of Waste Criteria for Recycled Metals
Materials covered
- ferrous metals (iron, steel);
- non-ferrous metals (aluminium).
Conditions for achieving EoW status
- completion of a full recycling process;
- compliance with strict technical specifications;
- absence of hazardous substances above allowed thresholds;
- implementation of a certified quality management system.
Benefits for industry
- elimination of waste shipment obligations;
- easier access to EU secondary raw material markets;
- higher commercial value of materials;
- direct contribution to the circular economy.
4. How DIWASS, Regulation 2024/1157 and Regulation 333/2011 Work Together
| Element | Role | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| DIWASS | Digital platform for waste shipments | Traceability, transparency, reduced bureaucracy |
| Regulation 2024/1157 | Legal framework for waste shipments | Stricter rules, controls, digitalization |
| Regulation 333/2011 | End of Waste criteria | Transforms waste into secondary raw materials |
The digital and regulatory transformations in waste management are not just obligations—they are opportunities. Companies that adapt early to DIWASS, the new rules of Regulation 2024/1157, and the End of Waste criteria under Regulation 333/2011 will benefit from more efficient processes, reduced costs, and expanded access to European secondary raw material markets.