EU waste rules impose digital reporting and higher fees across the Netherlands and Belgium

From 21 May 2026 an EU regulation mandates a valid digital DIWASS notification for all cross‑border transport of hazardous waste, ending paper‑based processes and removing any grace period. Every party in the waste chain—sender, carrier, receiver and processor—must be registered; a missing registration can block an entire shipment. Repeated violations may be pursued under the Environmental Crime Directive, potentially escalating to criminal liability.

For other waste streams (the “Green List”) a transition period runs until 31 December 2026, after which full digital enforcement starts on 1 January 2027.

In Belgium’s Limburg region, waste collection charges rise from 1 January 2026: household waste bags become more expensive (large 44 L bags €16 per 10, small 22 L bags €8 per 10) and the quota of bags per household is reduced. The regional waste tax increases, and bulky‑waste collection costs rise from €20 to €30, while self‑drop fees go to €0.25 per kilogram. The changes aim to curb waste volumes and encourage better recycling.