As of July 3, 2021, new measures regarding single-use plastic products will come into effect to reduce plastic pollution. These include a ban on certain single-use plastics, measures to recycle more plastic products, and better information about reusable alternatives to plastic.
Plastic pollution is a major environmental problem, and the amount of disposable plastic in seas increases every year. Plastic often contains toxic substances and does not break down in nature. Animals accidentally eat the plastic, which then re-enters the food chain.
Therefore, we are pleased with this concrete step against plastic pollution. We believe that recycling and reuse of raw materials are essential parts of the future, and single-use plastic products do not fit into this vision.
These are the measures:
- From 2021, member states must ensure reduced use of plastic on-the-go packaging (such as drinking cups and food containers);
- From 2021, there will be a ban on certain single-use plastic products. For example, plastic plates, plastic cutlery, plastic stirrers, and straws;
- From 2024, caps and lids must be attached to plastic bottles and beverage packaging. This way, they are automatically returned for recycling;
- From 2025, PET bottles must consist of at least 25% recycled plastics. By 2030, this must be at least 30%;
- From 2021, there will be a requirement for hygiene products (such as wet wipes, tampons, and sanitary pads), tobacco products, and drinking cups. This will indicate which waste category they belong to (how to dispose of). It will also include information about the plastics in the product and their environmental impact;
Producers will be responsible for (litter) waste from some of their products. This applies to drink and food packaging, drinking cups, light plastic bags, wet wipes, tobacco products (with filters), balloons, and fishing gear. Producers must, among other things, ensure the collection, transport, and processing of those plastic products. And for consumer awareness;
- By 2025, at least 77% of all plastic drink bottles up to 3 liters must be
- collected. By 2029, this must be at least 90%;
The government will provide consumers with information about reusable alternatives to these plastic products. And about possibilities for proper waste management (how to dispose of waste). Consumers will also receive information about the impact of this plastic waste on the environment.
These are the 9 most common single-use plastic products found on beaches:
- Cotton swabs
- Cutlery and stirrers
- Balloon sticks
- Food packaging / boxes
- Drinking cups
- Cigarette butts
- Plastic bags
- Chip bags / candy wrappers
- Wet and sanitary wipes
