The End-of-Life Vehicles Regulation moves forward with key provisions for automotive glass

For the flat glass value chain, two key aspects were of particular importance in this provisional agreement. First, the mandatory dismantling of at least 70% of glass from windshields, rear windows, side windows and glass rooftops. Second, the mandatory recycling of this dismantled glass into new glass.

These provisions shall lead to increased glass recycling, thus contributing to circularity in our sector and reducing energy use and CO2 emissions from glass production.

The text voted on yesterday also includes provisions requiring new vehicles to be designed for dismantling, thereby facilitating the application of the above-mentioned rules. Besides, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes for vehicles are planned to address the costs inherent to the numerous new end-of-life treatment requirements (which go beyond glass products).

Glass for Europe welcomes this vote and considers this compromise text as an excellent and balanced step forward for end-of-life automotive glass circularity in the EU.

A plenary vote in the European Parliament and formal adoption by the Council of the EU must now take place, after which the regulation will be published in the Official Journal of the EU and enter into force.

Most provisions will apply from 24 months after entry into force, with the dismantling obligations subject to a longer 36-month transition period.