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Brussels, |
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The deposit return system introduced in Europe
The European Parliament ratified a compromise agreement reached with the Council, which encompasses also the establishment of a deposit return system for single-use plastic bottles and metal containers by 2029. This decision not only modifies certain measures but also alters the legislative approach: the issue will now be governed by an EU Regulation rather than a Directive, thereby ensuring more stringent and uniform application across all Member States. Packaging shall only be placed on the market if it complies with this Regulation.
The newly enacted EU packaging regulation defines specific and impactful objectives aimed at significantly reducing the environmental impact of packaging waste. Key goals include preventing the generation of excess packaging by reducing its volume, encouraging the adoption of reuse and refill practices to enhance the life cycle of packaging materials, ensuring that all packaging becomes recyclable by 2030 through cost-effective methods, and promoting the use of recycled plastics. These initiatives are designed to create a sustainable closed-loop system, thereby decreasing reliance on virgin materials and fostering a more environmentally responsible approach to packaging across the European Union.
On November 30, 2022, the European Commission put forward a Proposal for a Regulation COM(2022) 677 final to overhaul the Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive, signaling a pivotal shift towards sustainability in line with the European Green Deal and the new circular economy action plan. This proposal set a lofty yet crucial goal: to ensure that by 2030, all packaging on the EU market is either reusable or recyclable in an economically viable manner. This ambition is further underscored by the 2018 Plastics Strategy's objective to achieve the reuse or recycling of all plastics packaging by the same year.
After intense negotiations and deliberations, a provisional political agreement was reached on March 4, 2024, between the Council presidency and the European Parliament’s representatives. This was a significant milestone that led to the formal adoption of the new Regulation by the European Parliament on April 24, 2024, and subsequently by the Council.
After intense negotiations and deliberations, a provisional political agreement was reached on March 4, 2024, between the Council presidency and the European Parliament’s representatives. This was a significant milestone that led to the formal adoption of the new Regulation by the European Parliament on April 24, 2024, and subsequently by the Council.
Packaging shall only be placed on the market if it complies with the new Regulation.
Goals and Objectives of the New Regulation
The newly adopted Regulation sets clear and actionable goals aimed at curtailing the environmental impact of packaging waste.
These include:
- Preventing the generation of packaging waste by reducing its overall quantity.
- Promoting the reuse and refill of packaging materials to extend their lifecycle.
- Ensuring all packaging is recyclable by 2030 through economically viable methods.
- Increasing the use of recycled plastics in new packaging, thereby fostering a closed-loop recycling system and reducing the reliance on virgin materials.
Key Measures Introduced
To achieve these objectives, the Regulation introduces several robust measures:
- Reduction Targets: Member States are required to meet specific targets for reducing packaging waste, complemented by mandatory reuse targets for economic operators across selected packaging groups.
- Restrictions on Over-Packaging: Unnecessary packaging and certain forms of over-packaging are restricted, supporting systems that enable the reuse and refill of packaging.
- Design for Recycling: All packaging must now adhere to design criteria that facilitate recycling, ensuring that future packaging is easier to process.
- Recycled Content Requirements: There are minimum required rates for the inclusion of recycled content in plastic packaging, driving the demand for recycled materials.
- Deposit Return Systems: Mandatory systems for the return of plastic bottles and aluminum cans aim to significantly increase recycling rates.
- Harmonized Labeling: New labeling requirements for packaging and waste bins will help consumers correctly dispose of packaging waste, thereby improving recycling efficacy.
Sustainability Requirements and Recycled Content
The regulation keeps most of the original sustainability requirements proposed by the Commission and sets definitive targets for 2030 and 2040 for the inclusion of recycled content in plastic packaging. It introduces new limits on hazardous substances such as PFASs in food contact packaging, with a mechanism for periodic review.
Reduction of Unnecessary Packaging
To combat waste, the regulation specifies a maximum empty space ratio of 50% for certain types of packaging, pushing manufacturers to minimize both weight and volume of packaging unless it involves protected designs.
Re-use Targets and Refill Obligations
By 2030, the EU mandates binding reuse targets, with further goals set for 2040. A progressive measure allows customers at take-away establishments to bring their own containers for beverages and prepared foods without additional charges.
Deposit Return Systems
Member States are tasked with achieving a 90% collection rate for single-use plastic bottles and metal containers by 2029, using deposit return systems, with some flexibility provided for those already nearing these targets.
Restrictions on Specific Packaging Formats
The regulation imposes restrictions on single-use plastic packaging for a range of products, aiming to reduce its prevalence and encourage alternatives.
The adoption of this new regulation marks a critical step forward in the European Union's commitment to a more sustainable and circular economy. By setting stringent, actionable requirements for the reduction, reuse, and recycling of packaging, the EU not only addresses environmental concerns but also sets a global benchmark for sustainable packaging practices. This new Regulation not only aims to protect the environment but also seeks to transform the packaging industry, fostering innovation and sustainability in equal measure.
