Plastic waste and recycling in the EU:
In Europe, energy recovery is the most common method for disposing of plastic waste, followed by recycling. Approximately 25 percent of all plastic waste produced is landfilled.
In June 2019, the EU adopted new rules to address the problem of plastic litter at sea To address this, a series of measures will be implemented targeting the top 10 single-use plastics found on European beaches and fishing gear. This includes a target of 25% of recycled content in plastic bottles by 2025 and 30% by 2030.
In November 2022, the Commission new EU rules for packaging It includes proposals to improve packaging design, such as clear labeling, to promote reuse and recycling, and calls for a transition to biodegradable, biodegradable, and compostable plastics.
As part of the Green Deal By 2030, 55 percent of plastic packaging waste must be recycled. This would imply better design for recyclability, but MEPs believe that measures are also needed to stimulate the market for recycled plastic.
- • creating quality standards for recycled plastic,
- • encouraging certification for recycled plastic to increase confidence for both industry and consumers,
- • introducing binding rules for minimum recycled raw material in certain products
- • encouraging Member States to levy VAT on recycled products
In January 2023, Parliament voted on its position on waste shipment rules, which should encourage reuse and recycling and reduce pollution.
