The decree, whose aim is to manage the constantly growing amount of waste, harmonize internal market rules and boost the circular economy, was adopted by the representatives with 476 votes, 129 against and 24 abstentions.
Reducing the use of packaging materials and limiting certain types of packaging
The rules agreed in principle with the Council generally limit the amount of packaging materials used (5 percent by 2030, 10 percent by 2035, and 15 percent by 2040), and the member states are particularly obliged to reduce the amount of plastic packaging waste. In order to reduce the unnecessary use of packaging materials, it is stipulated that in the case of collection, transport and e-commerce packaging, the proportion of empty space may not exceed 50 percent. Manufacturers and importers must also ensure that the weight and volume of the packaging is as small as possible.
As of January 1, 2030, it will be prohibited to use certain types of single-use plastic packaging. For example, the packaging of unprocessed fresh fruits and vegetables, the single-use plastic packaging of food and drinks served and consumed in cafes and restaurants, the single-use packaging of individually packaged portions (e.g. spices, sauces, coffee creamers, sugar), the single-use miniature of hotel toiletries packaging and the very light (thinner than 15 microns) plastic carrying bags.
In order to prevent harmful health effects, the rules prohibit the use of so-called “permanent chemicals” (perfluoro and polyfluoroalkyl substances or PFA substances) in packaging that comes into contact with food, if their amount exceeds a certain limit.
Encouraging reuse and refilling among consumers
The proposal sets specific reuse target values until 2030 for the packaging of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages (except e.g. milk, wine, flavored wine products and soft drinks), as well as for transport, consumer and collective packaging. Under certain conditions, Member States may grant an exemption from these requirements for 5 years.
Final distributors of beverages and takeaway food must allow consumers to take home purchased products in their own food barrels and beverage containers. In addition, they must strive to offer 10 percent of their products using some form of reusable packaging by 2030.
Under the new rules
all packaging (except lightweight wood, cork, textile, rubber, ceramic, porcelain and wax packaging) must be recyclable and meet strict criteria.
Among other things, the provisions define a target value for the minimum amount of recycled material plastic packaging must contain, and for what proportion of packaging waste must be recycled.
In 2029, 90 percent of single-use (up to three liters) plastic and metal beverage containers will have to be collected selectively (through a deposit fee system or other solution).
The MEP responsible for the legislation, Frédérique Ries (Renew, Belgium), said: “For the first time, the EU sets targets in environmental legislation to reduce packaging, regardless of the material used. The new rules encourage innovation and provide exemptions for micro-enterprises. Banning chemicals in food packaging is a big win for the health of European consumers. We call on all industrial sectors, EU countries and consumers to do their part in the fight against unnecessary packaging.”
The Council must formally approve the proposal before the regulation enters into force.
Background
In 2018, the packaging materials sector achieved a turnover of 355 billion euros in the EU. More and more waste is generated from packaging materials: within the EU, between 2009 and 2021, this amount increased from 66 million tons to 84 million tons per year. According to 2021 data, every European produces 188.7 kg of packaging waste, which could increase to 209 kg by 2030 in the absence of targeted measures.
Cover image source: Getty Images
