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Dic 21, 2023

EU restrictions on certain single-use plastics

The EU is acting against plastic pollution. From 3 July 2021, single-use plastic plates, cutlery, straws, balloon sticks and cotton buds cannot be placed on the markets of the EU Member States. In addition, the same measure applies to cups, food and beverage containers made of expanded polystyrene, and all products made of oxo-degradable plastic.

Single-use plastic products are made wholly or partly of plastic and are typically intended to be used just once or for a short period of time before they are thrown away. Under the new rules, certain throwaway plastic products for which alternatives exist are banned. Specific measures are also introduced to reduce the use of certain products.

More info: https://environment.ec.europa.eu/topics/plastics/single-use-plastics/eu-restrictions-certain-single-use-plastics_en

 

German Packaging Act: 2021 Amendment Embraces EU Single-Use Plastics Directive

The German Packaging Act underwent a significant amendment in 2021 to align with the EU directives on single-use plastics and waste management. Key modifications effective from various dates include:

  • July 3, 2021: New obligations for packaging not in existing systems. Producers must record takeback and recycling fulfillment, possess necessary resources, and inform consumers about return possibilities.
  • January 1, 2022: Extension of deposit obligations for one-way beverage containers. Mandatory deposit introduced for all, except dairy-filled bottles until 2024.
  • July 1, 2022: Changes in registration requirements for Producers. Registration of all packaging, including transport and reusable types, mandated with the Central Agency «Zentrale Stelle Verpackungsregister.»

Digital marketplace operators and fulfillment service providers obliged to work only with registered and licensed packaging.

  • January 1, 2025: Introduction of a sales ban on PET bottles with less than 25% recycled plastics. By 2030, a similar ban applies to all one-way beverage bottles containing less than 30% recycled plastics.

This amendment aims to enhance enforcement, improve recycling rates, and promote sustainable packaging practices in Germany. For detailed information, visit verpackungsgesetz-info.de.