EU waste packaging rules: Why small businesses are worried
The EU has introduced new rules targeting packaging waste and "forever chemicals." Although the changes will be phased in slowly, some small sellers have already paused shipments due to the additional red tape.
The European Union's new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) takes effect on Wednesday, imposing stricter standards on PFAS "forever chemicals" found in packaging materials intended for food contact. PFAS have been linked to various health risks, including certain cancers. Despite low usual exposure levels, scientists are concerned about long-term effects, as these chemicals accumulate in both humans and the environment.
The regulation also targets bisphenol A (BPA) in food-contact materials, which has been banned in the EU since last month. Businesses will not be required to recall or destroy existing packaging, but they will need to meet new sustainability standards and register their packaging in multiple EU states, often incurring fees.
Small businesses and online retailers have criticized the new rules, stating that the additional cost and administrative burden are too burdensome. Many businesses claim they now have to register their packaging in every EU country they send to, with fees ranging from €300 to €300 per country per year. Händlerbund, a German online retailers association, warned that the rules pose significant challenges for small businesses, potentially making cross-border trade more difficult.
EU lawmaker Elisabeth Dieringer raised concerns about the five-figure costs the regulation would impose on medium-sized firms, stating that smaller companies may struggle to comply.
Several businesses, from sole traders to medium-sized firms, have paused deliveries within the EU due to the new rules. The Swedish iLabs Electronics manufacturer has announced it will halt web shop orders from EU countries, citing the excessive cost and administrative burden of the new regulations. A change.org petition has garnered over 45,000 signatures, urging Brussels to "stop destroying EU micro-businesses."
The European Commission notes that packaging waste in EU countries has increased by 20% over the past decade, and without PPWR, it could rise by another 19% by 2030. EU data shows that 178 kilograms of packaging waste per person was generated in 2023, with only 42% of plastic packaging being recycled.
Written by urgent.news from DW English (Business)'s reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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