The European Parliament's ENVI committee on 22 June 2026 debated three major files: extended producer responsibility (EPR) suspension, a REACH objection on lead fishing tackle, and COP31 climate strategy. Divergences emerged on the scope of EPR relief and the proportionality of the REACH restriction.
On EPR suspension, rapporteur Ingeborg Ter Laak (EPP) proposed targeted relief for micro and small EU firms, excluding non-EU producers, with a sunset clause linked to the Circular Economy Act. Delara Burkhardt (S&D) warned of freeriding and criticised the lack of an impact assessment. Jutta Paulus (Greens-EFA) insisted that authorised representatives are essential to uphold the polluter-pays principle. Marie-Luce Brasier-Clain (PfE) pushed for suspension to be extended to all SMEs. Karolina D'Cunha of the European Commission's DG ENV defended the temporary relief as a bridge to broader reform. Amendments are due by 1 July, with votes scheduled for October.
On REACH, Pietro Fiocchi (ECR) tabled an objection to restricting lead fishing tackle, questioning the proportionality and evidence base. Manuela Ripa (EPP), Heléne Fritzon (S&D), Jutta Paulus (Greens-EFA), Sebastian Everding (The Left), and Vytenis Andriukaitis (S&D) defended the restriction as science-based. Florina-Andreea Pantazi of DG GROW cited ECHA assessments and a positive cost-benefit analysis. The objection vote is set for the next day.
On COP31, Peter Liese (EPP) linked climate ambition to clean tech investment. Sigrid Friis (Renew) urged EU electrification targets. Brasier-Clain (PfE) challenged the overall climate goals. A resolution is to be drafted.
The EPR suspension would reduce compliance costs for micro and small EU firms but could undermine the polluter-pays principle and create competitive distortions if non-EU producers are exempt. The REACH restriction would increase costs for fishing tackle manufacturers but reduce environmental lead pollution. COP31 ambition could boost clean tech industries but impose transition costs on fossil fuel sectors.