New EU measures on packaging apply from August 12
The European Union (EU) began to apply new rules on packaging and packaging waste on August 12.
According to the European Commission, this will help protect the environment and people’s health. “Packaging uses large quantities of raw materials and generates waste that ends up in landfills or the sea,” the Commission said.
“Some chemicals used in packaging can also be harmful.” It went on to say that the new rules address these issues by setting requirements for the manufacturing and composition of all packaging placed on the EU market.
They require packaging to be reusable or recoverable, meaning it can be used again or turned into something else after use.
From 2030, certain single-use packaging will be banned where more sustainable alternatives are available. Brands using non-recyclable or environmentally harmful materials will have to pay to clean them up.
