In the EU's most densely populated areas, disposal by dumping is reaching its limits. Even though it remains a possible solution in other areas where sufficient sites are still available, opportunities are limited in the long term by the threat of water and soil pollution and the protests of local inhabitants. Waste incineration is an option in many cases, having the advantage of energy recovery. However, investment is required to prevent toxic emissions, as well as careful planning and management of the plant and sensitive selection of sites. The best way to cut down the volume of waste is to reduce the use of packaging and to recycle.
Recycling has great potential for reducing pollution.
Recycling of paper, cardboard and glass is therefore of prime importance. Each Member State is to draw up a waste management plan. Joint research projects aim to reduce the quantities of waste which cannot be recycled and to set up processes for recycling industrial and domestic waste and the use of waste for agricultural purposes or energy generation. It contains a list of toxic and dangerous substances divided into 27 groups. The Member States must ensure that such waste is stored and treated only in authorised plants.