The European Parliament's ENVI committee on 22 June 2026 debated three major files: the suspension of extended producer responsibility (EPR) for small firms, a REACH objection on lead fishing tackle, and the EU's strategy for COP31. On EPR, rapporteur Ingeborg Ter Laak (EPP) proposed a targeted suspension 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 a lack of impact assessment, while 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 step pending broader reform. On REACH, Pietro Fiocchi (ECR) tabled an objection questioning the proportionality and evidence base for restricting lead fishing tackle. 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 cost-benefit analysis. On COP31, Peter Liese (EPP) linked climate ambition to clean tech investment, Sigrid Friis (Renew) urged EU electrification targets, and Brasier-Clain challenged climate goals. Next steps: EPR amendments due 1 July, votes in October; REACH objection vote next day; COP31 resolution to be drafted.