In response to growing environmental concerns and increasing amounts of packaging waste, the European Commission proposed a new directive on November 30, 2022, that sets strict and ambitious requirements for the management of packaging and packaging waste. This directive, expected to be definitively adopted by the end of 2024, aims to drastically reduce the amount of waste and promote a circular economy within the European Union.
European Plastic Pact Packaging plays a crucial role in protecting and securing goods, particularly during transport. However, once this function is fulfilled, these packages turn into waste that significantly contributes to environmental issues. With an average production of about 180 kg of packaging waste per European per year, and an increase in packaging waste by more than 20% since 2013, it is becoming increasingly important to implement sustainable solutions.
The new directive introduces stricter standards and requirements for packaging design, material use, and waste management. The goal is to reduce the amount of packaging waste per capita by 15% by 2040, resulting in a total reduction of about 37% within the EU. This reduction is achieved by emphasizing recycling and the reuse of materials.
One of the key aspects of the directive is to encourage the use of environmentally friendly and reusable packaging. Companies are encouraged to consider more sustainable packaging options such as barrels, plastic containers, and pallets for transporting goods. This not only helps reduce waste but also promotes more efficient use of materials.
Furthermore, the directive sets a minimum content of recycled material for plastic packaging. By 2030, this content must be 35%, increasing to 65% by 2035. This measure requires companies to reconsider their packaging materials and waste management strategies, for instance by using more recycled material such as PCR stretch film.
To ensure compliance, the directive also introduces requirements for complete traceability of industrial packaging waste. Companies must implement effective monitoring and control systems to ensure that packaging waste is properly managed and recycled. This is especially important for waste exported to countries outside Europe.
Finally, the directive encourages companies to counter excessive use of packaging materials by minimizing unnecessary packaging. This can be achieved by closely matching the dimensions and weight of the packaging to the products, which further helps reduce the amount of waste generated.
The implementation of this new directive not only offers companies an opportunity to reduce their environmental impact, but also to contribute to a more sustainable future by embracing innovative and responsible packaging solutions.
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