The paper shows how this goal of transformation or defossilisation can be implemented step by step and how legal areas can be better integrated at EU level, which will result in new priorities for both sectors. For example, in waste management, much of what does not contribute to the carbon supply of the chemical industry can be phased out gradually. It also includes enabling all recycling technologies, from mechanical and physical to chemical processes and even incineration with CO₂ capture and utilisation, since all processes are needed in the transformation for the different waste fractions and target products. Overall, the ten proposals derived and analysed in the paper also lead to a significant reduction in bureaucracy.

There are some important proposals that build on instruments already introduced by the EU, such as substitution quotas for selected plastics sectors. The authors also specify proposals that are under discussion or being raised by Member States. However, there are also proposals to phase out existing regulations. It is important that the proposals build on each other and are implemented in a coordinated manner as part of a self-contained, phased overall package.

Fortunately, greater autonomy is becoming mainstream in the EU and is also one of the cornerstones of the new EU Council Presidency. However, unless it becomes practical, greater autonomy and resilience will remain nothing more than a narrative. And the path to achieving this will be fraught with difficulties.

DOI No.: https://doi.org/10.52548/LFPX3960