Environmental groups in France are warning that proposed legal changes could weaken the country’s anti-waste rules. The debate focuses on amendments to a government bill that would align French law with European Union legislation.
Campaigners say some of the changes risk undoing years of progress on plastic reduction and packaging waste.
The warning was issued in early February 2026, as lawmakers began reviewing the proposals in the French Senate. The issue has drawn attention from environmental groups, retailers and packaging firms across Europe.
Proposed amendments raise concerns over plastic use
The criticism comes from Surfrider Foundation Europe, which says several amendments would weaken existing restrictions on single-use plastics.
According to the group, some proposals would allow plastic bottles to return to school canteens and sporting events. Others could soften limits on disposable packaging in public spaces.
Campaigners argue that these measures run against current efforts to cut plastic waste. They also say the changes could confuse businesses that have already invested in alternative materials and reuse systems.
Why France’s anti-waste law matters
France’s current framework is based on the loi AGEC, adopted in 2020. The law aims to reduce waste, expand recycling and phase out single-use plastic packaging by 2040.
It introduced stricter rules for producers and retailers, including reporting duties and reuse targets.
The new bill under discussion, known as the Projet de loi DDADUE, is meant to bring French law in line with updated EU rules. Environmental groups say alignment should not mean lowering existing national standards.
Impact on packaging and industry planning
The debate is being closely watched by the packaging and retail sectors. France is one of Europe’s largest consumer markets, and its rules often influence wider industry practice.
Any weakening of national measures could affect long-term planning for packaging design, materials and compliance.
At EU level, the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation is setting common goals on recyclability, reuse and waste reduction. While the regulation allows member states to keep stricter rules, campaigners fear France may step back from its current position.
The Senate is expected to continue discussions later this month. Until then, businesses and environmental groups remain uncertain about the future direction of French anti-waste and packaging policy.
