The European Parliament has adopted new measures to reduce, reuse and recycle packaging used by e-commerce companies.
To reduce unnecessary packaging, no more than half of the packaging used by e-commerce companies within the European Union may be empty. The rules also require manufacturers and importers to ensure that the weight and volume of packaging is minimised. They have been provisionally agreed on with the Council and include packaging reduction targets of 5% by 2030, 10% by 2035 and 15% by 2040.
Certain single use plastic packaging types will be banned from 1st January 2030 including packaging for unprocessed fresh fruit and vegetables, packaging for foods and beverages filled and consumed in cafés and restaurants, individual portions such as condiments and sauces, and very lightweight plastic carrier bags.
Specific 2030 reuse targets are foreseen for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages packaging (except e.g. milk, wine, aromatised wine, spirits), transport and sales packaging, as well as grouped packaging. Member states may grant a five-year derogation from these requirements under certain conditions.
Frédérique Ries, a rapporteur for the Parliament, said: “For the first time in an environmental law, the EU is setting targets to reduce packaging, regardless of the material used. The new rules foster innovation and include exemptions for micro-enterprises. The ban on forever chemicals in food packaging is a great victory for the health of European consumers.”
He added: “We now call on all industrial sectors, EU countries and consumers to play their part in the fight against excess packaging.”
