Glossary
Anti-waste and circular economy Law and 3R decree - Technical and regulatory challenges

Source reduction or absolute reduction; source reduction or minimization

In eco-design packaging, the term "reduction" is not clearly defined in French and European legislation, unlike the terms "reuse" and "recycling." European Directive 94/62/EC on packaging and packaging waste, as well as Article L541-1 of the French Environmental Code, define the broader term "prevention," which refers to measures taken before a material or product becomes waste.

The NF EN 13428 standard on specific requirements for reduction at source defines it as "action aimed at reducing the quantity of packaging materials used, without compromising the essential functions of the packaging (protection, safety, information)". Reduction at source or "absolute" reduction refers to the total elimination of packaging or a packaging component, or a reduction in mass without...