28 november 2023
On Wednesday 22 November, the European Parliament voted by a large majority to introduce the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). The adopted proposal aims to significantly reduce the amount of packaging waste in Europe. Unfortunately, adjustments and exceptions were made.
APPROACH AT THE SOURCE
Plastic Soup Foundation strongly supports reducing unnecessary single-use plastic packaging. Almost half of all plastic produced is for this purpose. In 2021, we threw away as much as 16.1 million tonnes of plastic packaging in Europe.
The new measure stipulates a 20 per cent reduction in plastic packaging by 2040, including by allowing consumers to bring their own cup or container to take-away (fast food) outlets, cafes and hotels.
Plastic mini-packs for toiletries in hotels and shrink wrap around suitcases at airports will also be banned. Dangerous chemicals still commonly added to plastic food packaging, such as PFAS and BPA, will also disappear.
NOT STURDY ENOUGH
However, exceptions have also been made. Provisions to limit unnecessary fruit and vegetable packaging have been scrapped. The rule to reduce lightweight plastic bags has also been severely watered down.
Plastic Soup Foundation would have much preferred to see reusable alternatives included in the new regulations: these are plentiful and often more efficient.
Rapporteur Frédérique Ries (Renew, Belgium) said: “Regarding plastics, the contract has been fulfilled, since my legislative report tackles the heart of the issue by setting tougher waste reduction targets for plastic packaging. Unfortunately, on the circular economy, and prevention in particular, the outcome of the plenary vote is not so positive and ignores the reality of the figures: a 30% increase by 2030 if we don’t act now. Of the 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle), only recycling escaped unscathed. The end of throwaway packaging is still a long way off!”
Member states, including the Netherlands, are yet to adopt the decision on behalf of the European Council in early 2024. If necessary, it can still be adjusted. Indeed, as it stands, it is unambitious.
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