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EU moves to turn the tide on plastic waste
The EU's single-use plastic directive
1 minute read
The consumer backlash against plastic is widespread. As awareness of plastic pollution grows, we’re starting to see change, with governments, retailers and brand owners taking action to reduce waste.
Earlier this year, the European Parliament voted to ban ten of the most common single-use plastic items found on European beaches – including straws, cotton buds and cutlery – by 2021. The EU’s directive also calls for the reduction in single-use plastic food and drink containers. Request the materials from our recent webinar to understand the implications that the EU's single use plastic initiative will have for supply and demand in the plastics industry.
By far the most ambitious aspect of the plan is the inclusion of a 90% collection target for PET beverage bottles by 2029. With the collection rate currently averaging 58%, there’s a long way to go.
What needs to change for this target to become more achievable? And how will the legislation impact the plastics industry?
Just three out of the 44 countries in Europe meet the 90% PET collection target
PET collection rates will need to double
By 2029, EU member states would need to collect twice as many PET beverage bottles by weight in comparison to 2017. Robust demand growth is forecast for the next ten years, which will make it even more challenging to meet this goal.
Which countries are leading the way? And which are lagging behind? Fill in the form on this page to get your copy of the full insight.
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2021
EU plastics directive comes into effect
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90%
Target PET collection rate by 2029
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70
New recycling plants needed in Europe to meet targets