Recycling in France – how does it differ from the Polish system? A guide for exporters and importers

What challenges does France face in waste storage and processing?

Waste, especially packaging and plastics, is flooding European markets. Fortunately, more and more countries recognize that waste can be treated as a resource with added value. France is among the countries recycling a growing share of its waste. Its system is close to the leaders in Europe, such as Austria and Germany.

Each year, France recovers 40–50% of waste, while in Poland the figure is 20–30%. Still, the country faces challenges in waste storage and processing. One major issue is the mixing of biodegradable waste, such as food, with hazardous substances found in everyday items, including used electronic devices. To address this, France is taking increasing steps to cut waste volumes through recycling and reuse.

What is the Triman logo and what does it mean?

One of the most distinctive features of France’s recycling system is the Triman logo. This mark must be placed on products and packaging that can be recycled. The Triman logo was introduced in 2015 under French decree no. 2014-1577 on common labeling of recyclable products subject to sorting.

The obligation applies to all goods intended for recycling, so the logo can be found on packaging, textiles, tires, furniture, and more.

What regulations govern producer responsibility for waste collection and recycling in France?

A key measure defining producer responsibility in France is Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). This obligation was introduced under European Parliament directive 851/2018. The system requires businesses to take both organizational and financial responsibility for managing packaging waste at every stage of the product life cycle.

EPR is one of the main tools of French environmental policy. Its goal is to minimize the negative impact of products on the environment by promoting eco-design, increasing recycling efforts, and relieving the public budget from waste management costs.