The Council of the EU has officially adopted a regulation addressing packaging and packaging waste.

Source: PulpaperNews

These new regulations aim to significantly decrease the amount of packaging waste generated by establishing binding re-use targets, limiting certain types of single-use packaging, and requiring businesses to reduce packaging usage. The regulation encompasses the entire life cycle of packaging.

Safe, Sustainable, and Recyclable Packaging

The new rules include several key requirements for packaging:

• Targets for 2030 and 2040 that specify a minimum percentage of recycled content (up to 65% for single-use plastic bottles by 2040)
• A focus on minimizing the weight and volume of packaging while avoiding unnecessary materials
• Restrictions on harmful substances, including a ban on food contact packaging containing per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) above certain thresholds
• Requirements for labelling and information (e.g., concerning material composition or recycled content) that help consumers make informed choices and sort waste effectively.

Single-Use Plastic Packaging

The new regulations impose restrictions on single-use plastic packaging for:

• Pre-packaged fruits and vegetables weighing less than 1.5 kg
• Food and beverages served and consumed in hotels, bars, and restaurants
• Individual servings of condiments, sauces, milk creamer, and sugar in the hospitality sector
• Small, single-use cosmetic and toiletry items used in accommodation facilities (e.g., shampoo or body lotion bottles)
• Very lightweight plastic bags (e.g., those provided at markets for bulk groceries)

Re-use Targets and Re-fill Obligations

The regulation establishes new binding re-use targets for 2030 and indicative targets for 2040. These targets differ based on the type of packaging used by businesses (for example, binding targets of 40% for transport and sales packaging and 10% for grouped packaging).

According to these new rules, take-away establishments must allow customers to bring their own containers for filling with cold or hot beverages or ready-made meals without any extra charge.

Next Steps

The formal adoption by the Council today completes the ordinary legislative process. The regulation will now be published in the EU's Official Journal and will come into effect. It will be implemented 18 months after the date of its entry into force.