Questions frequently raised concerning the Single-Use Plastics Directive
Since July, EU member states have been obliged to implement the Single-Use-Plastics Directive (SUPD) of the European Union. This means, among other things, that packaging must indicate that plastic is used in the product in question. We examined the SUPD in more detail and have answered some of the most frequently raised questions for you.
So what is the SUPD actually and what does it mean?
The Single-Use-Plastics Directive is a guideline from the European Union to combat single-use plastic. It was passed by the EU in the middle of 2019 and since July 2021, member states of the EU have been obliged to implement this directive at national level. The ultimate goal of the directive is to considerably reduce pollution from fossil-based single use plastic. In addition, the implementation of the SUPD aims to promote closed loop oriented strategies such as recycling and sustainable multiple-use packaging solutions. The SUPD affects a total of 15 single-use plastic products which are addressed by a range of measures – including prohibitions, goals to reduce their consumption, labeling regulations and greater producer responsibility.
What products does the SUPD target?
The SUPD affects certain plastic single-use products for which there are alternatives of other materials. This primarily involves conventional fossil-based plastics as well as organic plastics. The SUPD prohibits, among other things, cotton buds, plastic beakers and plates, straws, stirrers or beakers and food containers of styrofoam. The SUPD has ruled a labeling obligation for drinking cups, food containers, tabacco goods, wet wipes and ladies’ hygiene products.
What does the labeling on the packaging mean?
On a range of products, manufacturers should inform consumers about the negative effects of incorrect disposal. This is done in the form of pictograms on the respective products, without which these can no longer be circulated – such as for example the pictogram on the label which states „Product contains plastic“. This should help to recognize whether the corresponding product is made of plastic in its entirety or only in part. The pictograms also include warnings about the improper disposal and the potential negative effects of this on the environment.
Does the label mean that the packaging is of plastic?
No, the label is about the actual product. The label is in the meantime on all packaging for tobacco goods, drinking cups, food containers as well as on packaging for monthly hygiene products and wet wipes. The pictogram aims to inform people that the product in the packaging contains fossil-based plastic or plastic.
Why do we need the SUPD?
The SUPD is an important part of the battle against the plastic crisis since it prohibits certain single-use plastic products. In the same way – among consumers – the SUPD creates awareness for the fact that many of our favorite products, which we use daily, contain plastic. In the supermarket or drug store, this information gives us the possibility to make a positive impact on the plastic crisis through our own purchasing behavior – for example by specifically purchasing alternative products. #ItsInOurHands
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