EU Copper Scrap Criteria

The European Commission Regulation (EU) No 715/2013 establishes criteria for determining when copper scrap ceases to be waste under the Waste Framework Directive. This regulation aims to ensure that copper scrap meets the technical requirements of the non-ferrous metal producing industry and complies with existing legislation and standards. It also seeks to prevent any adverse environmental or human health impacts. The regulation outlines the responsibilities of producers and importers, including issuing a statement of conformity and implementing a management system to demonstrate compliance with the criteria.

The criteria for copper scrap quality standards are detailed in Annex I of the regulation. Copper scrap must be graded according to customer or industry specifications and should contain less than 2% foreign materials by weight. It should not have excessive metal oxide, visible oil, oily emulsions, lubricants, or grease, and must be free of hazardous properties as listed in Annex III to Directive 2008/98/EC. Additionally, the scrap should not contain any pressurised, closed, or insufficiently open containers that could cause explosions in a metal work furnace, nor should it contain PVC in the form of coatings, paints, or residual plastics.

Producers must implement a management system that includes documented procedures for monitoring the quality of copper scrap, effectiveness of radiation monitoring, acceptance control of waste, and treatment processes. This system must be verified by an accredited conformity assessment body or an environmental verifier every three years. The regulation also specifies that the producer must ensure that suppliers implement a compliant management system and provide access to competent authorities upon request.

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