Peru's Recyclable Plastic Tableware Regulation: A Step Toward Sustainability

Peru's Draft Technical Regulation on Recyclable Plastic Tableware and Utensils outlines new standards aimed at fostering a circular economy while addressing environmental concerns associated with single-use plastics. This regulation forms part of the implementation of Law No. 30884, and sets strict standards for the production, importation, and distribution of recyclable plastic products, targeting a greener future.

Key Highlights of the Regulation:

1. Material Standards

   • Products must use monomaterials, avoiding combinations that hinder recycling.
   • Prohibited substances include those generating microplastics or containing hazardous materials like lead or cadmium, to a maximum  100 ppm.
   • Ban oxo-degradable plastics that fragment into microplastics. 

2. Recycled Content

   • Manufacturers must incorporate pre-consumer and post-consumer recycled materials
   • Manufacturers must maintain detailed traceability documentation

3. Labeling Obligations

   Labels must include:
   • Disposal instructions urging users to recycle responsibly.
   • Details on recycled material percentages.
   • The term "RECICLABLE."

4. Ban on Single-Use Plastic Items 

   • Prohibits single-use straws, plates, and utensils that contribute to microplastic contamination, unless explicitly exempted.

Compliance Requirements for Manufacturers and Importers

To adhere to the regulation:

• A Certification of Conformity is mandatory, proving compliance with technical and recyclability standards.
• Testing is performed in accordance with international ISO guidelines.
• Products must undergo recyclability evaluation to verify compatibility with local recycling infrastructure.

This regulation is a transformative initiative for Peru, targeting waste reduction while fostering an eco-conscious consumer base and driving industries toward sustainable innovation. By promoting responsible production and consumption practices, it marks a crucial step in Peru's journey toward a greener, more sustainable future, aligning with global environmental goals and supporting the shift to a circular economy. For additional details, you can find the Draft Regulation (in Spanish) here