EPR for sports and leisure products in France is an important part of the country’s circular economy legislation. Companies that place sports and leisure products on the French market need to understand the specific EPR obligations for this waste stream. This article provides an overview of the legal framework, registration requirements, and future challenges.
Legal Framework for EPR for Sports and Leisure Products in France
EPR for sports and leisure products in France was introduced by the Anti-Waste and Circular Economy Law of 02/10/2020 and has been mandatory since 2022. The aim is to promote the collection, reuse, and recycling of sports and leisure products based on the polluter-pays principle.
Companies that place sports and leisure products on the French market for the first time are required to pay an Eco-fee. Producer Responsibility Organizations, also known as PROs, coordinate the system and monitor compliance with the applicable regulations.
EPR for Sports and Leisure Products in France: Who Needs to Register?
Companies that place sports and leisure products on the French market for the first time must register with a French PRO for sports and leisure goods. Under the EPR regulations, this applies to individuals and legal entities that manufacture, import, or assemble sports and leisure products in France as part of their business activities. These products must be intended for end customers and used within French territory.
The obligations also apply to retailers that sell sports and leisure products through online marketplaces and to companies based outside France that supply French end customers directly.
Here you can find more information about EPR guidelines for e-commerce and online marketplaces.
Which Sports and Leisure Products Are Covered by the EPR Regulations?
The regulations cover sports and leisure products listed in Article R543-330 of Decree No. 2021-1213 of 09/22/2021. These products fall into the following categories:
- Bicycles as defined in Section 6.10 of Article R. 311-1 of the French Highway Code, as well as non-motorized personal mobility devices as defined in Section 6.16 of the same article.
- Products intended for sports activities and products intended for outdoor activities.
- Accessories for the products listed under points 1 and 2.
The following products are explicitly excluded from EPR for sports and leisure products:
- Products designed exclusively for professional use.
- Permanent equipment installed on sports grounds.
- Electrical and electronic equipment covered by Section 5 of Article L. 541-10-1.
- Products classified as toys.
Read more about EPR for toys in France here.
Important note: Under the French EPR regulations, it can sometimes be difficult to distinguish textile products from sports and leisure products. One of the most important criteria is the intended use. A textile product that can be used in everyday life is generally classified as a textile product, with a few exceptions. A textile product designed for a specific sports-related purpose and used exclusively for that purpose is generally classified as a sports and leisure product.
Are you unsure how to categorize your products or do you need general support with sports and leisure EPR in France? We are happy to help you!
How to Comply with EPR Requirements for Sports and Leisure Products in France
To meet the legal requirements, companies need to:
- Register with a French PRO (Producer Responsibility Organization) and complete the applicable registration steps.
- Declare the quantities and types of sports and leisure products placed on the French market every six months or annually, depending on the total volumes.
- Pay the applicable Eco-fee.
Future Developments and Challenges
EPR requirements for sports and leisure products in France continue to evolve. Topics such as repairability, material selection, and product lifespan are receiving greater attention.
For companies, this means continuously adapting their product and compliance strategies and closely monitoring regulatory developments.
Companies that invest in environmentally responsible solutions, such as providing spare parts and using recycled and more easily recyclable materials, can achieve environmental benefits and may also benefit from reduced Eco-fees.
Questions about EPR compliance for sports and leisure products?
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Conclusion
EPR for sports and leisure products in France is an important step toward a more sustainable future. Companies that integrate these requirements into their processes can strengthen their long-term competitiveness and actively support the transition toward a functioning circular economy for sports and leisure products.
We can support you in meeting your EPR obligations. Please feel free to contact us at any time.
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