Briefing: Implications of material security concern for waste management

Abstract

Supply security for specialty metals has become a concern in advanced economies and improved waste and resource management features prominently among the suggested policy solutions. Legislation with a material impact on boundary conditions for industries is currently lacking. Despite high price levels, significant legislation and public investment appear necessary in order to entice industry to increase efforts in this field, because of large uncertainties and risks for waste management firms. Individual companies and industry associations should seek to intensify the emerging dialogue with policy makers in Europe and elsewhere about meaningful public–private partnerships in this field.