ATIEL & UEIL Joint Sustainability Committee 11 Regulatory Compliance
The disposal and recycling of lubricants and greases in Europe are subject to stringent environmental regulations. As sustainability becomes a priority in the EU, it is essential for companies in the lubricant industry to ensure compliance with these regulations to reduce environmental impact. Understanding the European regulatory landscape governing lubricant end-of-life (EOL) management. This chapter focuses on regulatory frameworks within the European Union (EU) and provides actionable insights into howlubricant companies can adhere to these regulations while managing EOL products.
11.1 Understanding European Legislation
One of the first steps in ensuring compliance is understanding the key regulations that govern the disposal and recycling of lubricants in Europe. The European Union has established several key directives and regulations aimed at reducing the environmental impact of waste, including lubricants.
11.1.1.1 The Waste Framework Directive (2008/98/EC)
The Waste Framework Directive (2008/98/EC) is a foundational piece of legislation that governs waste management across Europe, including the management of used lubricants and greases. It sets out key principles for waste management, such as:
• Waste prevention: Efforts to minimize waste at the source. • Recycling and re-use: Promoting recovery of materials from waste. • Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): Requiring producers to take responsibility for the collection, recycling, and disposal of their products at the end of their life.
Lubricants and greases, once used, can be classified as hazardous waste if they are contaminated with harmful substances, which means that they must be disposed of in compliance with EU regulations. The Waste Framework Directive establishes a hierarchy for managing waste, prioritizing reduction, reuse, and recycling over disposal. For example, companies must ensure that used lubricants are collected and recycled properly, adhering to the principle of circular economy.
11.1.1.2 REACH Regulation
The REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals) Regulation (EC 1907/2006) governs the use of chemicals within the EU, including those found in lubricants. This regulation ensures that chemicals used in lubricants do not pose a risk to human health or the environment.
REACH also affects the formulation of lubricants by setting strict rules regarding the chemicals that can be used in the production process, helping to reduce the potential for harmful impacts when the products reach their end-of-life phase.
11.1.1.3 The European Ecolabel and ISO 14001
As part of the EU's efforts to promote sustainability, the European Ecolabel certification program is available for products, including lubricants, that meet high environmental standards. Lubricants bearing the Ecolabel are required to demonstrate responsible production practices, safe disposal methods, and environmental friendliness. Companies that manufacture or sell
Version 11.06.2025 © ATIEL and UEIL Lubricants & Greases End of Life, Sustainable Best Practices
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