France to use bio-based and compostable plastics in packaging
Trade body European Bioplastics has welcomed new French laws adopted to introduce bio-based and compostable plastics to selected types of packaging, as well as fruit and vegetable bags.
Trade body European Bioplastics has welcomed new French laws adopted to introduce bio-based and compostable plastics to selected types of packaging, as well as fruit and vegetable bags.
The French Parliament adopted the law on energy transition and green growth proposed by Minister of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Energy Ségolène Royal.
The new laws will require bioplastic lightweight bags for fruits and vegetables to be bio-based and compostable in home composting starting from 1 January next year.
A decree of the state council will declare the minimum bio-based content and its progressive increase, as well as measures for consumer information about the material composition and utilisation of such bags.
"France has taken a step forward to the responsible consumption of plastic materials and to treating waste as a valuable resource."
European Bioplastics board chairman François de Bie said: "France has taken a step forward to the responsible consumption of plastic materials and to treating waste as a valuable resource.
"Bioplastic materials will contribute their share to its environmentally responsible economic growth."
The compostable plastics that comply with European norms support a separate biowaste collection and home-composting infrastructures, while oxo-fragmentable plastics are essentially durable, fossil-based plastics with artificial additives, which cause the plastic to fragment into micro-particles.
Since oxo-fragmentable plastics have the potential to obstruct mechanical recycling, French institutions will restrict the production, distribution, sale, provision and utilisation of packaging or bags made partially or completely from oxo-fragmentable plastics.
Image: The new laws will require bioplastic lightweight bags for fruits and vegetables to be bio-based and compostable in home composting. Photo: courtesy of Arvind Balaraman via FreeDigitalPhotos.net.