France's Circular Economy Law (AGEC Act — Anti-Waste and Circular Economy Law)
ENFORCEMENT TIMELINE
Phased implementation since February 2020 (key provisions fully applicable in 2023 and 2025)
Overview
This is France's landmark circular economy law, comprehensively covering the phase-out of single-use plastics (reaching zero by 2040), a ban on destroying unsold non-food goods, mandatory display of a repairability index and a durability index, and a substantial expansion of the product categories subject to extended producer responsibility, including DIY products, toys, and sporting goods.
Enforcement Timeline
February 2020: The law is promulgated.
January 2021: The repairability index display requirement becomes mandatory for home appliances and IT products.
January 2023: The ban on destroying unsold non-food goods and the Article 13 disclosure obligation begin.
2024: Certain product categories transition to the durability index.
January 2025: Newly sold washing machines are required to be fitted with microplastic filters.
Business Impact
As a national law that preceded the EU's ESPR and Right to Repair Directive, it remains the single most significant compliance requirement for distributing and selling products in the French market.