New EU measures to reduce, reuse and recycle packaging

On April 24, European Parliament adopted new measures to make packaging more sustainable and reduce packaging waste in the EU, which harmonize internal market rules and boost the circular economy.

European Parliament adopted new measures on sustainable packaging and reducing packaging waste. (Source: European Parliament)

Reduce packaging and restrict certain types

The rules include packaging reduction targets (5% by 2030, 10% by 2035 and 15% by 2040) and require EU countries to reduce, in particular, the amount of plastic packaging waste.

To reduce unnecessary packaging, a maximum empty space ratio of 50% is set for grouped, transport and e-commerce packaging; manufacturers and importers will also have to ensure that the weight and volume of packaging are minimized.

Certain single use plastic packaging types will be banned from 1 January 2030, including packaging for unprocessed fresh fruit and vegetables, foods and beverages filled and consumed in cafés and restaurants, individual portions (for condiments, sauces, creamer, sugar), accommodation miniature packaging for toiletry products and very lightweight plastic carrier bags (below 15 microns).

To prevent adverse health effects, the measures also include a ban on the use of “forever chemicals” (per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances or PFASs) above certain thresholds in food contact packaging.

Encourage reuse and refill options

Specific 2030 reuse targets are set for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages packaging (except for milk, wine, aromatized wine, spirits), transport and sales packaging, and grouped packaging. Member states may grant a five-year derogation from these requirements under certain conditions.

Final distributors of beverages and take-away food will have to offer consumers the option of bringing their own container. They will also be required to endeavor to offer 10% of products in a reusable packaging format by 2030.

Promote recyclable packaging, better waste collection and recycling

Under the new rules, all packaging (except for lightweight wood, cork, textile, rubber, ceramic, porcelain and wax) will have to be recyclable by fulfilling strict criteria.

Measures also include minimum recycled content targets for plastic packaging and minimum recycling targets by weight of packaging waste.

By 2029, 90% of single use plastic and metal beverage containers (up to three liters) will have to be collected separately (via deposit-return systems or other solutions that ensure the collection target is met).

In the next stage, the Council will have to formally approve the agreement as well before the measures enter into force.