EU Reaches Agreement for Sustainable Packaging and Circular Economy

On 11 March 2024, the European Parliament and the Council reached a ground-breaking provisional agreement on reformed rules aimed to improve the sustainability and safety of packaging and promote a circular economy. 

Background: 

In 2018, packaging turnover of in the EU reached € 355 billion, making a significant contribution to the economy. However, the increase in packaging waste, from 66 million tonnes in 2009 to 84 million tonnes in 2021, required strategic measures. Each European generated 188.7 kg of packaging waste in 2021, a figure that is projected to rise to 209 kg in 2030 without intervention. 

Key Measures: 

• Packaging Reduction Targets: 

The agreement sets ambitious reduction targets, particularly for plastic packaging waste. 

• Ban on Certain Single-Use Plastics: 

From 1 January 2030, certain single-use plastic packaging formats will be banned, including those for fresh produce, foods and beverages in cafes/restaurants, and individual portions. 

• Ban on "Forever Chemicals": 

To ensure health and safety, the agreement introduces a ban on the use of "forever chemicals" (PFAS) in food contact packaging. 

• Reusable Packaging Targets: 

A specific target for reusable packaging for beverages (excluding milk, wine, etc.) is set at a minimum of 10% by 2030, with the possibility for Member States to grant derogations under certain conditions. 

• Consumer Options for Reusable Containers: 

Final distributors of beverages and take-away food must offer consumers the option of using their own containers. By 2030, they must aim to offer 10% of products in a reusable packaging format. 

• Incentives for Tap Water and Recycling: 

Member States must encourage restaurants, canteens, bars, cafés, and catering services to serve tap water in a reusable or refillable format. 

• Recyclable Packaging and Waste Collection: 

The agreement mandates that all packaging to be recyclable, with specific criteria defined through secondary legislation. Exceptions are made for certain materials such as wood, cork, textiles, rubber, ceramics, porcelain, or wax. 

Other measures include minimum recycled content targets for plastic parts, increased recyclability requirements, and a commitment to separately collect 90% of single-use plastic and metal beverage containers by 2029. 

Next Steps: 

The agreement must be formally approved by the European Parliament and the Council before it can come into force. 

This remarkable agreement represents a significant step towards a sustainable and circular approach to packaging in the EU.