Irish Retailers Demand Equal Recycling Rules for Cross-Border Sellers

Irish retailers are calling for cross-border vendors to comply with the same recycling regulations that domestic companies must follow. This demand comes as concerns grow about the environmental impact of online shopping, particularly from sellers based outside Ireland.

In Ireland, a seller’s legal responsibility includes funding the collection and recycling of products sold on the market. Retailers dealing in items such as batteries and electronics must register with a compliance scheme, report their sales, and pay fees to cover recycling or safe disposal costs. Yet, according to Digital Business Ireland (DBI), many cross-border vendors, including those shipping directly from China and other Asian countries, effectively evade these obligations.

Consumer Support for Fair Regulations

A recent study commissioned by DBI reveals that 60% of Irish consumers would refrain from purchasing from online sellers that do not adhere to recycling responsibilities. The research, conducted by Amárach, surveyed 1,000 individuals and highlighted a growing awareness of environmental issues among shoppers. Notably, 70% of respondents aged 55 and over expressed that they would be less inclined to buy from retailers failing to contribute to Ireland’s environmental goals.

DBI chairperson Caroline Dunlea emphasized that local retailers comply with these regulations while many international sellers do not. “Retailers in Ireland are playing by the rules, registering, reporting, and paying into take-back schemes, while many overseas distance sellers continue to bypass those obligations and free-ride on the back of Irish retailers and consumers,” she stated.

Environmental Concerns Among Young Consumers

The issue of sustainability resonates strongly with younger demographics. According to the 2025 European E-Commerce Report, 80% of consumers expressed concerns about the responsibilities of online sellers, particularly regarding sustainability linked to shipping goods from abroad. Among those aged 35 and under, this figure escalated to over 85%.

To address these challenges, DBI is urging the Irish government to implement a “pay-on-behalf” model. This system would require major online marketplaces to register and manage environmental compliance fees for sellers located outside Ireland. Similar models are already operational in several EU countries, including France, Germany, Italy, and Spain.

Ms. Dunlea called for immediate national action, asserting, “We need national action now to protect compliant Irish businesses, strengthen recycling performance, and safeguard consumer trust.” As online shopping continues to grow, ensuring equitable regulations for all retailers will be crucial for addressing environmental impacts and promoting a fair market.