In response to the European Parliament’s vote on proposed new EU rules for packaging and packaging waste, Charles Héaulmé, president and CEO of Huhtamaki, expressed satisfaction with the alterations made to the original proposal.
Héaulmé emphasised that the approved regulation aligns with the principle of promoting the best environmental outcomes.
He specifically highlighted the allowance for the use of renewable and recyclable paper-based single-use packaging in the hotel, restaurant, and café (HORECA) sector and the removal of reuse targets for takeaway food and drinks.
As the legislative process continues, the EU Council will play a crucial role in shaping the final regulation. Final negotiations are expected to determine the ultimate form of the packaging and packaging waste regulation.
Amendments to proposed EU packaging rules
The European Parliament voted on 22 November to approve proposed new EU rules for packaging and packaging waste, introducing key amendments to the original proposal put forth by the European Commission.
Amendments focus on HORECA sector and takeaway food and drinks
Members of Parliament endorsed the proposal with amendments that notably include the removal of proposed single-use bans in the HORECA sector.
Additionally, reuse targets for takeaway food and drinks have been eliminated.
This decision signifies a shift from the initial recommendations of the European Commission and introduces alterations that impact the use of renewable and recyclable paper-based single-use packaging in the HORECA sector.
The deletion of reuse targets for takeaway items is also a significant departure from the original proposal.
EU legislative process moves forward
Following the European Parliament’s decision, the next stage in the EU legislative process involves a decision by the EU Council on their position.
Subsequently, final negotiations will take place among the European Commission, European Parliament, and Council.
The anticipated timeline for the adoption of the final version of the packaging and packaging waste regulation is set for the first half of 2024, with a gradual enforcement schedule beginning in 2026.
Huhtamaki is a global company specialising in sustainable packaging solutions. With operations in 37 countries and a century-long history, the company is focused on achieving carbon-neutral production and designing products for recyclability, compostability, or reusability by 2030.
