On May 28, 2018, the European Commission (EC) published a proposal for a Directive of the European Parliament (EP) and of the Council on “the reduction of the impact of certain plastic products on the environment.” A draft of the proposal was leaked in advance (FPF reported) and first reactions from industry and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to the draft were mixed (FPF reported).
The EC’s proposal foresees different measures for different single-use plastic items in an attempt to reduce plastic pollution in the environment, particularly in the oceans. For example, consumption of food containers and beverage cups shall be reduced, and there shall be market restrictions on cotton bud sticks as well as cutlery, plates, stirrers, and straws. Extending producer responsibility and raising public awareness are also suggested measures for many items.
Feedback on the EC’s proposal and the accompanying impact assessment can be given until July 24, 2018.
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PlasticsEurope (May 28, 2018). “Industry urges commission to avoid shortcuts and to focus on improving waste management.”
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Daniel Boffey (May 28, 2018). “EU challenges UK to ‘race to the top’ on plastics reduction.” The Guardian
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