The European Parliament has endorsed new regulations aimed at drastically cutting packaging waste throughout the EU.
Significant Legislative Changes
These rules, approved by a decisive vote of 476 to 129 with 24 abstentions, will overhaul packaging waste management across Europe.
Ambitious Targets and Measures
In 2021, the EU produced 84 million tonnes of packaging waste, a notable rise from 66 million tonnes in 2009.
The new regulations introduce sweeping measures for the entire packaging life cycle.
Key goals include a 5% reduction by 2030, 10% by 2035, and 15% by 2040, targeting a significant decrease in plastic packaging waste and its environmental toll.
The legislation mandates a maximum empty space ratio of 50% for grouped, transport, and e-commerce packaging.
Manufacturers and importers must reduce the weight and volume of packaging to address unnecessary waste.
Prohibitions on Single-Use Plastics and Hazardous Substances
Starting January 1, 2030, certain single-use plastic packaging types will be banned.
This includes packaging for unprocessed fresh fruits and vegetables, food and drinks in cafés and restaurants, individual condiment portions, mini toiletry packaging in accommodations, and lightweight plastic bags.
The regulations also ban ‘forever chemicals’ in food contact packaging above specified thresholds to safeguard public health.
Promoting Reuse and Refill
The new rules set specific reuse targets for 2030, covering packaging for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, transport and sales packaging, and grouped packaging.
Member states may apply for a five-year exemption under certain conditions.
Beverage and takeaway food vendors must offer consumers the option to bring their own containers and aim for 10% of their products in reusable packaging by 2030.
Enhancing Recycling Initiatives
All packaging, except for lightweight wood, cork, textile, rubber, ceramic, porcelain, and wax, must meet stringent recyclability standards.
The legislation sets minimum recycled content targets for plastic packaging and establishes recycling targets by weight of packaging waste.
By 2029, 90% of single-use plastic and metal beverage containers up to three litres must be separately collected through deposit-return systems or equivalent solutions.
Role of Industry and Consumers
Rapporteur Frédérique Ries praised the innovative aspect of the new rules, highlighting that for the first time, the EU is setting reduction targets for all packaging materials.
The regulations are designed to stimulate innovation and provide exemptions for small enterprises.
Ries underscored the crucial role of industry and consumer engagement in reducing excess packaging and lauded the ban on forever chemicals as a major win for consumer health.
Upcoming Legislative Steps
The European Council must formally approve the agreement before the measures take effect.
This groundbreaking legislation marks a vital step in the EU’s mission to establish a circular economy, cut waste, and eliminate non-sustainable packaging practices.