Since Tuesday, a new regulation on packaging and waste has entered into force, designed to reduce waste and limit the use of certain disposable plastics. These new European Union (EU) guidelines aim to reduce the environmental impact caused by excess packaging and foster a more sustainable economy.
According to the European Commission, this regulation will contribute to significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions, water use and environmental costs in the packaging sector. At the same time, it will provide new opportunities for the recycling and sustainability sectors. “This is an important step towards a more circular, sustainable and competitive EU economy,” the commission said in a statement.
The new rules apply to all types of packaging placed on the European market, covering materials used in domestic, commercial and industrial contexts. The regulation establishes measures for waste management and prevention, promoting the reuse and recycling of materials.
According to, one of the most relevant changes includes the ban on certain unique plastics, such as fruit packaging and vegetables under 1.5 kg and individual portions of spices and sugar in hotels, bars and restaurants. Legislation also imposes limits on the weight and volume of packaging to avoid unnecessary waste.
In addition, Take-Away companies should offer customers the ability to bring their own containers at no additional costs. This measure aims to encourage reuse and reduce disposable waste production.
By 2029, Member States will have to ensure the annual selective collection of at least 90% of plastic bottles and single-use metal containers for drinks. These goals are part of a wider plan to increase recycling and minimize the environmental impact of packaging.
Global goals for reducing packaging waste, based on the quantities recorded in 2018, are 5% by 2030, 10% by 2035 and 15% by 2040. These measures seek to reverse the growth tendency for packaging waste, that have been significantly increasing in recent years.
Currently, about 40% of the Plastics used in the EUs are intended for packaging and about half of marine waste results from these materials. The production and management of packaging waste represents a turnover of 370 billion euros in the EU, being a sector of great economic and environmental impact.
Over the past ten years, the amount of packaging waste in Europe has increased by almost 25%, and it is expected to grow another 19% by 2030. In the case of plastic packaging residues, the forecast points to a 46% increase in the same period.
By 2030, European legislators expect these new measures to contribute to a significant reduction in the negative impacts of packaging on the environment and public health. The implementation of the regulation reflects the EU commitment to a circular and more sustainable economy for future generations.
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