NETHERLANDS – The Dutch government has announced plans to implement new rules for single-use plastic packaging – specifically those used for takeaway foods and drinks – from July 1.
The new measures stem from the 2021 European Single Use Plastics (SUP) directive and aim to reduce the impact of single-use plastic on the environment and reuse and recycle more plastic.
The goal is to reduce the use of disposable cups and containers containing plastic in the Netherlands by 40% by 2026.
Catering businesses, restaurants, food stalls at festivals and other points of F&B sale including ready-to-consume food containers sold in supermarkets must offer reusable alternatives to single-use items.
The rules also apply to disposable cups and food packaging made from bioplastics including biodegradable plastic or plastic made from renewable raw materials.
While businesses can decide the amount customers would have to pay on takeaway plastic packaging, the government guidelines suggest €0.25 (US$0.27) for cups €0.50 (US$0.55) for a meal and €0.05 (US$0.05) for pre-packaged vegetables, fruit, nuts and portion packs.
Starting in July, businesses will be required to clearly state the additional charge on the receipts or highlight it on displays in stores.
Furthermore, they will need to provide customers with an alternative to plastic packaging, such as reusable packaging or swap to plastic-free disposable packaging.
The government has exempted products from the rules that can be recycled into cups or food packaging, but it currently only applies to packaging made from PET.
“To use this exception, you must register with the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate (Inspectie Leefomgeving en Transport, ILT),” explains Business.gov.nl, the Dutch Point of Single Contact website that is part of the EU’s ambition to improve the internal market via a Single Digital Gateway.
“You also must collect the materials yourself and submit them for high-quality recycling. The minimum percentage that you must collect increases annually (between 75%-90%).”
Vivianne Heijnen, state secretary of Infrastructure and Water Management explains that the Netherlands alone throws away 19 million plastic cups and food packaging daily that have only been used once.
“Unnecessary waste that often ends up on the street and in the bushes. To reduce the mountain of waste and reduce litter, the government is implementing measures to make reuse the norm,” explained Heijnen.
The introduction of these regulations highlights the Dutch government’s commitment to combatting plastic pollution and promoting a circular economy.
By mandating the use of eco-friendly packaging, the Netherlands aims to reduce plastic waste, promote recycling and minimize the environmental impact of single-use plastics.
The regulations align with the European Union’s broader strategy to tackle plastic pollution and achieve a more sustainable future.
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