News

A global problem – with growing pressure to act

The global textile industry faces massive challenges: Over 92 million tons of textile waste are generated annually – yet less than 1% of this is recycled into new textiles. This linear model is neither ecologically nor economically viable.

With Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for textiles, the industry is at a turning point. In the future, companies will be held more accountable – from the design to the end of their products’ lives .

Situation in Austria: The cycle is stalling

There is also an urgent need for action in Austria: More than 220,000 tons of textile waste are generated annually. Only around 26% of this is collected separately , and less than 2% is recycled.

A large portion ends up incinerated or landfilled—a waste of valuable raw materials. Even damaged textiles—with stains or tears—could serve as the basis for new textiles , provided suitable collection, sorting, and recycling structures are in place.

Separate collection of used textiles has been mandatory throughout the EU since January 1, 2025. Regulatory pressure is increasing – and with it, the responsibility for companies.

Regulatory change: EPR & PPWR – more responsibility for companies

The EU Packaging Regulation (PPWR) also entered into force at the beginning of 2025. Together with the EPR, these regulations mark a paradigm shift: companies that place products and packaging on the market will in future be responsible for their entire life cycle .

In Austria, the EPR currently applies to packaging, waste electrical and electronic equipment, and batteries. However , textiles are also increasingly becoming a focus of legislation . Countries such as France, Sweden, and the Netherlands have already introduced corresponding systems; Austria is working on national implementation .

For affected companies, this means that anyone who places textiles or textile components into circulation will also have to assume financial responsibility in the future.

Future textile cycle: What is necessary – and what is already being created

A functioning textile cycle requires more than separate collection. The challenges are diverse:

• Variety of materials , such as blended fabrics made of cotton and polyester
• Chemical residues and low quality in fast fashion
• High logistical effort in collection and sorting
• Lack of sales markets for high-quality recyclates

The goal: a functioning, circular textile economy that conserves resources, reduces waste and promotes long-lasting products.

Interzero: Clear position & active implementation

“The issue of fast fashion and its negative impact on our planet concerns us all!
— Thomas Glatz, Managing Director of Interzero Austria

Interzero positions itself clearly:

“The transition to a circular textile economy is one of the biggest transformations the industry has ever faced.”

Our self-image:
We are not just consultants – we are implementers.

Your advantage as an Interzero partner

Even if the legal pressure doesn’t yet directly affect all industries, the development is clearly marked . Interzero supports you with concrete solutions to ensure timely and future-proof action:

• Regulatory security through strategic advice and support
• Systemic solutions along the entire take-back and recycling chain
• Sustainable competitiveness through resource-saving circular models

Think about the future together. Act sustainably.

• Let us convince you of our expertise in collection, sorting and recycling .
• Interzero Austria develops individual take-back systems with which you can close your textile cycles .
• Now is the right time to take action. Talk to us – we will accompany you.

Interzero stands for modern compaction technology that not only saves space but also optimizes processes.

Waste and recyclable materials take up valuable space and cause avoidable costs. With a wide range of balers, container presses, and specialized solutions, Interzero offers you the right technology for almost every industry – and we take care of more than just delivery.

Our in-house, manufacturer-certified service team ensures smooth operations from day one: We professionally install your machine, commission it, and train your employees directly on-site – so you can get started safely, efficiently, and in compliance with standards.

You also benefit from our technical expertise during ongoing operation: Regular maintenance and inspections in accordance with the German Machinery Regulations (AMVO) and the respective manufacturer’s specifications extend the service life of your machine and ensure its value retention. With customized maintenance packages, you not only save costs but also time – because we proactively remind you of upcoming service intervals.

Should a problem arise, quick assistance is guaranteed: Our technicians will come directly to you with a wide range of spare parts and resolve many problems on the first visit. In many cases, even a phone call is enough – our experienced service back office will support you via email at orwak-service@interzero.at or by phone with troubleshooting.

You’ll also receive excellent support beyond this: We reliably supply you with consumables such as binding tape and garbage bags. And our in-house service team is available to answer any questions you may have about your machine.

By the way: Upon request, we also take care of maintenance and repairs for machines not purchased through Interzero. Simply contact us – we’ll be happy to see how we can support you. Discover machine service now

Strong impulses and clear positions

In his welcoming speech, Interzero Managing Director Thomas Glatz emphasized: “Every day counts – our goal must be to keep resources in circulation and drastically reduce consumption.”
With a well-founded keynote speech, our packaging engineer Jonathan Scheck provided the foundation for the technical discussion: “The PPWR is part of the European Green Deal and will gradually become the mandatory basis for recyclable, resource-saving packaging solutions throughout the EU. Recyclability, recycled material requirements, single-use bans, and harmonized labeling requirements are among the core elements of the new regulation .”

The topic of eco-fee modulation – i.e. the adjustment of license fees to recyclability – was also a central part of the presentation.

Practical examples and voices from the business world

Participating companies such as Coca-Cola HBC Austria, Adamol, Brantner, Würth, and Austrian Post reported on their own packaging optimization measures and emphasized the need for joint solutions, particularly to support small and medium-sized enterprises. There was agreement that sustainable packaging can only succeed through close cooperation between business, politics, and consumers.

Interzero: The partner at your side

As a leading provider of circular economy solutions, we provide our customers with comprehensive support in implementing the PPWR: from licensing and material analyses to specific packaging optimization. Our experts work on customized solutions to prepare companies for the upcoming requirements – data-driven, reliable, and Europe-wide.

Would you like to know what the PPWR specifically means for your company?

You can find more information on our detailed page “The EU Packaging Regulation PPWR” or contact us for your personal consultation!

>> Make contact!

With the new EU Battery Regulation, Europe is entering a new era of sustainable product responsibility. Its core is a comprehensive life cycle approach that, for the first time, regulates all phases of battery production – from raw material extraction through production and use to collection, reuse, and recycling.

The regulation not only replaces the previous EU Directive 2006/66/EC, but also raises the requirements to a new level – with concrete obligations, labeling requirements, and reporting obligations. Learn what applies in Austria and what you need to pay attention to here.

The most important changes to the new EU Battery Regulation at a glance:

• New battery categories: In the future, there will be five battery categories. In addition to device, automotive, and industrial batteries, batteries for light transport (LV) and batteries for electric vehicles (EV) will be introduced.
• Holistic life cycle approach : Companies bear responsibility across the entire life cycle – from production to disposal.
• CO2 footprint : Maximum CO₂ footprint values will apply in the future for industrial, LV and electric vehicle batteries.
• Recycled content : From 2031, minimum recycled content will be required for industrial, LV and electric vehicle batteries, e.g., 16% cobalt and 6% lithium.
• Performance standards: From 2027, new minimum requirements for durability, capacity and internal resistance will apply to some battery categories.
• Easy removal and replaceability: From February 18, 2027, portable batteries must be easily removed and replaced by the end user (except in exceptional cases).
• Labeling requirements : From August 18, 2026, batteries must be labeled in detail. From 2027, a QR code with a digital battery passport will follow for larger LV and industrial batteries (> 2 kWh) and electric vehicle batteries.
• Due diligence obligations : From 2025, companies with a turnover of more than €40 million must consider the impacts of the procurement, processing and trade of raw materials required for battery production.

From 2026 – new reporting obligations under the EU Battery Regulation

The new regulation also brings extensive changes to the Austrian reporting system. Existing categories are being revised and new categories are being introduced. The final version of the reporting categories is currently being coordinated:

• Monthly reporter : from 01/2026
• Quarterly reporter : from Q1/2026
• Annual reporter : Report for the year 2026 Flat rate reporters are also affected – an adjustment of the flat rates is currently being prepared.

Schedule – Here is an overview of the most important deadlines:

• 18.08.2024: Obligation to carry out conformity assessment
• 18.08.2025: Due diligence obligations & EPR mandatory
• 18.08.2026: Labeling requirements come into force
• 18.02.2027: QR code & battery passport mandatory
• 18.08.2027: Minimum standards for battery performance
• 18.08.2028: Declaration of recycled content required
• 18.08.2031: Minimum recycled material quotas mandatory
• 18.08.2036: Increase in recycled content

Which battery categories are affected by the new EU Battery Regulation?

• Portable batteries (under 5 kg, neither for LV, starter or electric vehicle batteries)
• Starter batteries (e.g. for cars)
• Industrial batteries (over 5 kg, not EV or LV)
• NEW: LV batteries (for light electric vehicles under 25 kg)
• NEW: Electric vehicle batteries (> 25 kg for hybrid and electric vehicles)

Our service for your company:

Our expertise lies in the rapid, straightforward, and practical implementation of the new requirements. Batteries must be collected, taken back, and recycled after they are placed on the market. Transfer your obligations for the take-back and recycling of device, vehicle, or industrial batteries in Austria to Interzero Austria – reliably, legally compliant, and efficiently.

Your advantages with us:

• our many years of experience in product responsibility,
• individual support from our experts,
• clear support in converting your reporting systems,
• sound advice on reporting, labeling and take-back obligations.

Our solutions for secure compliance of your batteries:

All details about the commitment and redemption at Interzero can be found here: Battery licensing

Also relevant for Austria:

• National implementation of the EU regulation is no longer necessary – it applies directly .
• Austria is responsible for supplementary regulations, such as the Battery Accompanying Act , which is currently still being coordinated and regulates points regarding the collection and return of used batteries in detail.
• Documentation requirements are increasing significantly – for example through QR codes and battery passports.
• The requirements for collection and recycling are increasing – including stricter documentation requirements .

Would you like to know which specific steps are necessary for your company?
Take advantage of our free webinars or get individual advice.

In many Austrian companies – whether SMEs or large corporations – waste management has evolved over the years rather than being strategically planned: skips, separation systems, and collection intervals have been adjusted selectively, often out of necessity. The result: high costs, a lack of space, complex coordination – and a constant stream of new emergency solutions. However, a well-thought-out waste management concept can achieve significant savings .

Interzero as a solution partner for your waste management concept

As a holistic environmental services provider, we understand these challenges firsthand. Last year, we developed over 500 customized solutions for our clients and restructured and successfully implemented numerous waste management concepts. Our goal is always the same: less effort, lower costs, and greater efficiency – all without compromising on environmental and waste disposal standards.

Two practical examples:

• Small business in Carinthia : By integrating a small press, annual transport costs were reduced by over €8,000 . The investment paid for itself in the first year. Additionally, valuable storage space was freed up, and coordination costs were significantly reduced due to fewer pickups.
• Large company with multiple locations : For an industrial customer with six locations in Austria, Interzero coordinated 332 collections per year. As a central point (“one face to the customer”) , we relieved the customer’s workload by communicating with 30 contacts, consolidating processes, and significantly reducing coordination effort. The result: noticeable cost savings , less operational complexity, and consistently more efficient waste management.

Our promise:

Whether you’re an SME or a large company, we develop customized concepts for your business. Whether with or without investment, you’ll benefit from tailor-made solutions that save space, money, and time .

Take the first step towards optimizing your waste processes.

The first three companies that contact us will receive a free on-site inspection by our experts – including a potential analysis and concrete implementation suggestions.

Digital. Transparent. Efficient: Our waste management platform.

Do you want to go one step further?

Our new Waste Management Platform digitizes your waste processes – from commissioning to collection to reporting. You benefit from a central contact, a single invoice, complete transparency across your waste streams, and optimized processes that significantly reduce your administrative burden.

With around 2,000 employees and annual sales of nearly one billion euros, Interzero operates throughout Europe and supports more than 50,000 customers on their path to greater sustainability. Our strength lies not only in our size, but also in our commitment to creating real added value through networked solutions. In 2023 alone, our activities saved 1.2 million tons of greenhouse gases and 11.1 million tons of primary resources, according to Fraunhofer UMSICHT. As recipients of the 2024 German Sustainability Award, we see it as our mission to deliver sustainable solutions – including in Austria.

Interzero stands for more than packaging licensing

Because here in Germany, too, we stand for more than just packaging licensing: Our services range from customized waste management concepts , efficient machine solutions , and packaging design including recyclability assessments to digital reporting , consulting , and international compliance management . Together with our customers, we develop tailored strategies to optimize environmental performance – measurable, holistic, and economically viable.

Your advantage with Interzero:

Many companies still rely on standalone solutions. This often leads to interface problems, duplicate coordination efforts, and inefficient processes. This is precisely where we come in: Our services integrate seamlessly . You benefit from a central contact, consistent support, and intelligently networked processes – for greater transparency, faster implementation, and lower costs.

It’s worth looking beyond your own horizons:

If you currently only use one of our services, discover the full potential of our integrated offerings now. Whether licensing, operational disposal, reporting, or consulting – with Interzero, you get everything from a single source. This not only reduces complexity but also measurably increases your sustainability performance.

Get to know our entire offering and get your personal company presentation!

👉 Write to us – we look forward to hearing from you!

With its new Waste Management Platform, Interzero is digitizing operational waste management and significantly reducing administrative burdens for companies. The platform enables centralized control of all waste management processes across multiple locations, optimizes cost control, and saves valuable working time. Interested companies can test the Waste Management Platform free of charge and without obligation.

Vienna, April 28, 2025 – Waste management is a significant burden for many companies: Waste streams must be documented, legal regulations must be complied with, and contracts with various service providers must be coordinated. Interzero’s new digital Waste Management Platform now offers companies a simple, transparent, and efficient solution to centralize and optimize these processes.

Cost reduction through optimized waste management processes

To meet the needs of companies in different industries, Interzero has developed the new platform in close cooperation with its customers “Our Waste Management Platform is an intuitive and powerful solution for digitally managing and optimizing the entire waste management process. This helps companies operate more efficiently and reduce their costs.” , says Thomas Glatz, Managing Director at Interzero Austria.

Individually customizable reports and dashboards provide a constant overview of waste volumes and costs incurred. Based on this data, savings potential can be identified and, for example, disposal intervals can be adjusted. Companies with a complex structure – for example, with multiple locations – benefit particularly. This is because the Waste Management Platform can reduce administrative workload by up to ten working days per year. This means companies only have one contact person and receive a single invoice. “For companies with more than two locations, this reduces complexity enormously. This frees up valuable resources that they can invest in their core business,” explains Glatz.

The most important advantages of the Waste Management Platform at a glance

• Central control : Locations, waste streams and service providers are clearly managed on one platform.
• Time and cost savings : Projected time savings of up to 10 working days per year through reduced administrative effort.
• Individual evaluations : Recording and analysis of all relevant waste data in real time.
• Performance analysis : Detailed controlling and reporting functions for greater transparency and cost control.
• Ease of use : Easy operation at the touch of a button – available anytime and on all mobile devices.

Companies interested in the Waste Management Platform can test it free of charge and without obligation.

Further information on Interzero’s new Waste Management Platform can be found at: https://interzero.at/leistungen/waste-management/waste-management-plattform/

Global deforestation is one of the greatest threats to our climate, biodiversity, and the livelihoods of millions of people. To address this challenge, the European Union adopted the new EU Regulation to curb trade in products linked to deforestation and forest degradation in May 2023. This regulation, also known as the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) , requires companies to demonstrate deforestation-free supply chains starting December 30, 2025.

What is the EUDR Regulation?

The aim of the EUDR is to prevent the import of products that contribute to global deforestation into the EU market. In particular, the regulation affects raw materials such as palm oil, soy, coffee, cocoa, beef (meat), rubber, and wood , as well as processed products containing these raw materials, such as chocolate, paper, or furniture. The EUDR requires companies to provide evidence that all affected products have not caused deforestation and comply with the legal requirements of the country of origin.

Why was the EUDR created?

The EU contributes significantly to global deforestation, as many agricultural products in the Union are sourced from deforested land. Forests are not only an important carbon sink and habitat for numerous animal species, but they also provide the livelihoods of many indigenous peoples. The EUDR aims to help stop the conversion of forests into agricultural land and reduce pressure on natural resources. Another important aspect is protecting biodiversity and preventing illegal evictions of communities and indigenous peoples.

Which products are affected in the EUDR?

The EUDR applies to various commodities and their derivatives, including:

• Palm oil
• soy
• Coffee
• cocoa
• Beef (but not milk)
• rubber
• Wood products (including paper, furniture, charcoal)

These products must either be deforestation-free or provide a detailed due diligence statement proving that no deforestation was involved in the production of the product. It doesn’t matter whether the products were manufactured in the EU or elsewhere—the EUDR applies worldwide.

The requirements for companies

Companies must demonstrate that their products meet the following conditions:

1. Deforestation-free : Raw materials must not come from areas where deforestation occurred after December 31, 2020. Furthermore, harvesting must have been carried out in a manner that does not harm the forest ecosystem.
2. Compliance with the laws of the producing country : In addition to EU requirements, producers must comply with the national environmental protection laws, labor rights and human rights regulations of the producing country.
3. Due Diligence Declaration : A key obligation for companies is the preparation and submission of a due diligence declaration. In this declaration, companies must demonstrate that they have collected all relevant information regarding the origin and production methods of their products and that the risks related to deforestation and forest degradation have been assessed.

How does due diligence work?

Companies that place raw materials or products on the EU market must ensure that their products are deforestation-free through a three-step due diligence process:

1. Information collection : Companies must collect information about their products, such as origin, quantity, and production methods. This includes using geolocation data to trace the origin of raw materials.
2. Risk assessment : Based on the collected data, companies must conduct a risk assessment. This assessment considers whether the product originates from a country with a high risk of deforestation. Products from high-risk countries are subject to stricter requirements, requiring more detailed analysis and additional risk mitigation measures.
3. Risk mitigation : If a company identifies a risk of deforestation, it must take measures to mitigate that risk. This can be done by switching to more sustainable raw material sources or by implementing additional controls on suppliers.

When does the EUDR Regulation come into force?

The EUDR will enter into force in stages :

• From 30 December 2025 : The regulation applies to large and medium-sized enterprises.
• From 30 June 2026 : Small and micro-enterprises will then also have to meet the requirements of the EUDR.

This phased approach is intended to ensure that companies have sufficient time to prepare for the new regulations. Companies must submit their due diligence declarations and all relevant documentation via the EU digital information system TRACES .

Challenges and criticism

Although the EUDR is a significant step toward protecting global forests, it also presents challenges and challenges. Some companies fear that the additional documentation requirements and the associated bureaucracy will represent a significant burden. Small businesses, in particular, face the challenge of implementing the extensive requirements without the necessary infrastructure.

There are also uncertainties about how exactly the various requirements will be implemented and how the regulation will affect companies’ procurement costs. It remains to be seen how the regulation will affect international trade, especially if companies in less regulated countries could rely on less stringent regulations.

What does this mean for companies?

Companies must prepare for the new regulations by making their supply chains transparent and ensuring that all relevant data on the origin and production of their products is available. To meet the requirements, companies should take early steps to audit their suppliers and document their due diligence obligations.

The EUDR ensures that companies operate more sustainably in the long term and assume responsibility for their supply chains. Those who adapt in a timely manner can not only ensure compliance with the new requirements but also make an active contribution to environmental protection.

Conclusion

The EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) is a crucial step in combating global deforestation and presents companies with new challenges. Starting in 2025, companies will not only be required to bring deforestation-free products to the EU market, but will also be required to provide comprehensive evidence of the origin and sustainability of their products. This regulation will help protect forests and their biodiversity worldwide and combat global climate change.

Companies that prepare early for the requirements of the EUDR have a clear competitive advantage when it comes to implementing sustainable supply chains.

If you have general questions about the EUDR Regulation or would like to know what it means specifically for your company, please feel free to contact our experts! We are here for you!

Every year the Global Footprint Network calculateswhen a country’s natural resources will be exhausted for the current year. In Austria, this date will already be reached on March 29, 2025 – much too earlyFrom this point until the end of the year, we will consume more than our ecosystem can regenerate. This is unsustainable.

Why is Country Overshoot Day a problem?

• Overuse of resources : We consume almost twice as many resources as our ecosystem can provide.
• Climate change & biodiversity loss : Increasing resource consumption leads to more greenhouse gas emissions and destroys natural habitats.
• Future of next generations : Every earlier Overshoot Day means fewer resources for future generations.

But the good news is: We have the power to postpone this day !

Interzero: Let’s postpone the date!

As a leading company in the circular economy, we are committed to a world without waste Recycling and reusing materials protects the planet, reduces greenhouse gas emissions and helps to delay Overshoot Day .

How can we make a difference together?

• Make products recyclable
• Use recycled materials
• Optimize processes resource-efficiently
• Establish sustainable supply chains

The circular economy is the key – for greater sustainability, resource security and cost efficiency.

Everyone can make a contribution – but business and politics are needed!

Achieving sustainable change requires more than individual actions. Companies and policymakers must act together to strengthen the circular economy and create incentives for sustainable business.

Separate packaging collection continues to gain momentum in Austria. Around 230,000 tons of plastic and metal packaging were collected via the yellow bag and yellow bin in 2024 —a 4% increase in packaging collection compared to the previous year.

Across Austria, Vienna (from a low starting level) achieved the largest increases with a collection increase of 8%, as did Lower Austria and Carinthia (7% each).

These increases show once again how important the standardization of the collection, which was implemented throughout Austria from 1 January 2025, is., for the recycling targets. Since then, Shower gel bottles, yogurt cups, chip bags, aluminum trays, and cans are collected together in the yellow bin or yellow bag. Deposit-backed disposable beverage bottles and cans are excluded , as they belong to the deposit system.

“Since January 1, 2025, there has been a uniform system for the collection of lightweight and metal packaging in Austria. From now on, empty packaging must be placed in the yellow bag or yellow bin. The aim of this standardization is to promote the circular economy and achieve EU recycling quotas ,” says our Managing Director Thomas Glatz.

Why is proper packaging collection important?

Despite the introduction of the deposit system , around 80% still end up of lightweight and metal packaging in the yellow bag or yellow bin. Correct separation remains crucial, to conserve valuable resources, reduce environmental pollution and ensure a functioning circular economy .

The new deposit system as a reminder for companies and consumers

Since the beginning of 2025, a deposit system for beverage bottles and cans has been in force in AustriaDeposit packaging is marked and belongs in the Return systemHowever, it is essential that all other lightweight and metal packaging continues to be collected separately. Only through consistent Proper separation can effectively increase the recycling rate – a basic prerequisite for achieving the EU circular economy targets.

Interzero’s contribution and vision for the future

As a leading environmental service provider, Interzero is continuously working to close material cycles and improve packaging recycling rates. The standardization of packaging collection contributes to meeting the required EU recycling quota for plastic packaging, which is an important milestone for climate and environmental protection.

The positive developments in 2024 give us confidence that we will achieve these targets. As one of the collection and recycling systems (SVS) active in Austria, Interzero ensures the collection, sorting, and recycling of packaging.

• We support the circular economy with innovative solutions.
• We are continuously working to improve collection and recycling rates.
• Our goal: A world without waste!