The EU passes a tab to reduce packaging and ban single-use plastics

The European Union (EU) member countries have passed a new tab aimed at reducing packaging and banning single-use plastics. 

The agreement aims to reduce packaging waste by 5% by 2030, 10% by 2035, and 15% by 2040, irrespective of material, and by 2030, all EU packaging must be recyclable, except for some cases. 

The ban on single-use plastic products in cafes and restaurants will be lifted, but paper or cardboard packaging will remain. Fast food chains will not be required to use reusable containers, but consumers can bring their own. Small hospitality businesses will also benefit from exemptions. 

Needs to be approved by the European Parliament.

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According to the European Statistics Agency (Eurostat) reports, in 2021, Europe produced 84 million tons of packaging, resulting in 188.7 kg of waste per person. If unaddressed, this could rise to 209 kg by 2030, emphasising the urgent need for measures to reduce waste and ban single-use plastic packaging. 

The EU has demonstrated its commitment to environmental protection and public health, a significant step forward in the face of climate change and environmental pollution, setting an exemplary example for other regions and countries worldwide. 

Source: According to Sustainable Production and Consumption - Ministry of Industry and Trade, "EU passes tab on reducing packaging, banning single-use plastic items," posted on March 20, 2024, see link: http://scp.gov.vn/tin-tuc/t13707/eu-thong-qua-du-luat-ve-cat-giam-rac-thai-bao-bi-cam-do-nhua-dung-mot-lan.html, accessed June 12, 2024.