On 29 June 2026, MEPs Daniel Buda, Maria Walsh, and Herbert Dorfmann of the European People's Party (PPE) submitted a parliamentary question to the European Commission, challenging the classification of wool from healthy animals as a high-risk waste product under EU law. The question, published on 1 July 2026, argues that the current regulatory framework treats wool as a Category 3 animal by-product under Regulation (EC) No 1069/2009 and Commission Regulation (EU) No 142/2011, imposing obligations that hinder its use, marketing, and valorisation. The MEPs contend that this forces farmers to pay for collection, storage, or disposal of a natural, renewable material, while the EU simultaneously promotes reduced chemical fertiliser use and sustainable agricultural practices. They note that wool from healthy animals is legally treated the same as materials with significantly higher sanitary risks, such as blood or hides. The Commission is asked to justify why wool is regulated as waste rather than a valuable resource, and whether it intends to propose a revision of Regulation (EC) No 1069/2009 during the current mandate to establish a specific, proportionate framework for wool. The deadline for a Commission response is 30 September 2026. The question directly affects EU farmers and the wool value chain, who bear the costs of compliance with waste regulations for a material that could otherwise be valorised as a natural fibre or fertiliser. A revision could reduce administrative burdens and support the circular economy, but may face opposition from those concerned about relaxing sanitary standards. The Commission's response will indicate whether it plans to act within the current mandate, with potential implications for agricultural policy and waste management.
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