European Parliament’s Environmental Committee adopts its position on Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive, drawing concerns from Cosmetics Europe

On 20 September 2023, the European Parliament’s Committee on the Environment, Public Health, and Food Safety (ENVI) voted on its report on the European Commission’s proposal for the revision of the Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive (UWWTD). The report aims to promote the reuse of treated wastewater, enhance monitoring of wastewater content, and establish an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) system targeting pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. While the report received strong support, concerns were raised by Cosmetics Europe regarding the financial burden placed on the cosmetics industry and the need for a more balanced approach to micropollutant regulation.