Local and international experts will present the draft legal acts, namely for Packaging, Batteries and Accumulators, End of Life Vehicles, Used Lubricant Oils and End of Life Tyrese, as well as proposed institutional setup for the competent authority and the obligations of each party.

The meeting will be attended by over 150 representatives of the central and local governments, international and donor organizations, private sector, chambers of commerce and business associations.

The event is a joint effort of the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia (MEPA) and the European Union Technical Assistance Project to improve waste management practices in Georgia.

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a policy approach to waste management successfully implemented throughout Europe. Under this tool, the producers and importers take a responsibility for the proper collection and treatment of specific waste.

The Waste Management Code of Georgia, which will be enacted from December 2019, introduces a concept of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for the following specific waste streams: packaging waste (plastic, paper/cardboard, wood, metal, glass), waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE), end-of-the life tires (ELTs), end-of-the life vehicles (ELVs), used oils, used batteries and accumulators.

Extended Producer Responsibility is a new concept for Georgia and its introduction requires a relevant legal framework and adequate awareness of the public and private sector. The Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia, with the support from the European Union and other donors has been working in this area since 2017.