European Parliament proposes shocking plans to end the plastic era
On 24 April, the European Parliament passed new regulations limiting the use of plastic packaging. This means that small packets of sauce, hotel toiletries, and plastic wrapping of fruits and vegetables will be eliminated. The European Union is leading an environmental revolution.
For quite some time now, the European Union has been making efforts to reduce plastic production and waste. Many businesses have already stopped supplying plastic straws, cutlery or plates, and disposable packaging is being increasingly replaced by eco-friendly alternatives made of paper, bamboo, or other sustainable materials.
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The general public has played a crucial role in this shift towards sustainability. Increased awareness of the importance of segregating waste, coupled with the threat of high fines, has led to the development of good habits. The question now is whether the EU authorities will take even bolder steps to encourage sustainability further.
European Parliament launching eco-revolution?
On 24 April, the European Parliament expressed its intention to introduce new legislation to reduce plastic packaging. The majority of MEPs supported the regulation, but the official decision still requires approval from member states. However, given the unanimity, the approval process is expected to be a mere formality. The EU's plan is to reduce plastic packaging by 5% by 2030, 10% by 2035, and up to 15% by 2040.
What changes does the European Parliament propose?
European Union authorities want to focus primarily on reducing the amount of excess plastic packaging in the retail and transport industries. To achieve this, shops will be required to use packaging that matches the size of the order and avoid unnecessary plastic bags or fillers.
Furthermore, from 1st January 2030, certain types of packaging will be completely banned. These include plastic boxes used for packaging fruits and vegetables, disposable crockery (such as cups for takeaway drinks), and single-portion sachets for spices or sauces. Customers in shops, restaurants and cafes will be encouraged to bring their own crockery instead. The ban will also apply to plastic packaging for hotel toiletries like soap and shampoo, with establishments being encouraged to use refillable dispensers.
Moreover, all plastic packaging will have to be recyclable, and newly manufactured packaging will have to contain a proportion of recycled materials. From 2029 onwards, bottles and cans will have to be collected separately. It is possible that the EU will adopt a deposit system, which is already common in other European countries.
Source: Eska
