Andorra Takes Over Paper Waste Management, Awards Contracts for Oils

The Andorran Council of Ministers has taken over management of paper and cardboard waste from municipal selective collection for the first time, awarding the service to Eco Grup Internacional, SA, as part of the public waste management model outlined in the Waste Law.

This move expands the government's existing oversight of packaging, glass, and refuse, aiming to boost waste traceability, recycling rates, and progress toward a circular economy. The firm earned the contract through the highest bid evaluation and must ensure proper handling, maximizing recovery and valorisation.

Government spokesperson and Minister Guillem Casal detailed the decision at a press conference after Wednesday's cabinet meeting. He indicated that paper and cardboard handling costs would vary with collection volumes, drawing on EU estimates of roughly €13,000 monthly.

In parallel, the Council awarded FEPER, SLU an administrative concession for collecting, storing, and valorising used mineral oils, classified as hazardous and potentially polluting waste. All producers must now deliver these oils to FEPER, enabling centralized collection, enhanced oversight, and traceability through to authorized final treatment.

Neither service will burden public finances directly. The contractors will cover costs via fees on producers—tariffs to be published in the official gazette, BOPA—and income from valorised materials.