EU Packaging Rules Take Effect With Limits On PFAS & Plastic Waste

New European Union packaging regulations came into force on Wednesday, introducing limits on PFAS chemicals in food-contact packaging and measures to reduce packaging waste.

The rules replace packaging regulations dating to the 1990s as waste has increased with the growth of online shopping and takeaway consumption. Packaging accounts for about 40% of plastic consumption in Europe. Europeans generate around 180 kg of packaging waste per person each year, with 35.3 kg coming from fossil-fuel-based plastic, according to Eurostat data for 2023. The first measures include maximum limits for PFAS, which are used in products such as takeaway containers, bakery paper and pizza boxes. Manufacturers will also be required to provide information to help authorities trace packaging to its source.

The EU aims to reduce packaging waste by 5% by 2030 and 15% by 2040 from 2018 levels. From 2028, a common labelling system for waste sorting will also be introduced.