Representing Clients Before the EU Court on the Single Market and Extended Producer Responsibility

The law firm Brezavšček Žgavec, led by attorney Andrej Brezavšček, recently represented multiple clients in a pivotal hearing before the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) in Luxembourg. This case, C-254/23, focused on a fundamental question: whether EU single market rules, particularly those governing freedoms and competition, extend to the field of extended producer responsibility (EPR).

Extended producer responsibility is a vital component in advancing environmental goals and supporting the EU’s transition to a circular economy. By assigning waste management responsibilities to producers, EPR encourages sustainable practices and greater accountability throughout the product lifecycle, reducing environmental impact across the European Union.

The Court’s decision in this case could have far-reaching implications for EPR systems in all EU member states, potentially affecting the development, competitiveness, and operational standards of these frameworks. The outcome will also influence how single market rules interact with sustainability policies, shaping the path forward for environmentally responsible business practices within the EU.