Which packaging will be banned by 2030?
Staff Cart-One 18/06/2026 0
The European Union has recently approved new measures on packaging, destined to revolutionize the way we produce, use, and dispose of wrapping materials.
Which packaging will be banned by 2030? On April 24, the European Parliament gave the green light to a regulation that aims to make packaging more sustainable and reduce waste. This regulation was approved with a large majority and represents a decisive step toward the circular economy. Read also: “Packaging: paper is the fastest-growing food packaging material”
New Rules for Packaging
The new Packaging Regulation, which will enter into force following formal approval by the Council and publication in the Official Journal of the EU, amends and repeals previous regulations, including Directive 94/62/EC on packaging and packaging waste management. The new provisions point toward a future with less plastic, packaging that is easier to recycle, and fewer harmful chemicals. Let's see in detail what will change.
Recycling and Reduction Targets
The new European rules establish ambitious targets to reduce packaging and increase its recycling:
- Packaging reduction of 5% by 2030, 10% by 2035, and 15% by 2040;
- Specific reduction targets for plastic packaging waste;
- Limits on waste, with a maximum empty space ratio of 50% for multiple packaging and for those intended for e-commerce.
Packaging Banned by 2030
Starting from January 1, 2030, certain types of single-use plastic packaging will be prohibited. These include:
- Packaging for fresh, unprocessed fruit and vegetables;
- Packaging for food and beverages consumed inside cafés and restaurants;
- Single-serve portions of condiments, sauces, coffee creamer, and sugar;
- Small single-use packaging used in hotels;
- Ultra-lightweight plastic bags under 15 microns.
Alcoholic Beverage Packaging and Other Provisions
The regulation provides specific reuse targets by 2030 for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage packaging, excluding milk, wine, and spirits. Takeaway food and beverage distributors must offer at least 10% of their products in reusable packaging by 2030.
Improvement of Collection and Recycling Systems
All packaging, except for specific materials like lightweight wood and cork, must be recyclable according to strict criteria. By 2029, 90% of single-use metal and plastic beverage containers up to three liters must be collected separately through deposit-refund systems or other effective solutions.
The Italian Case
The new rules have raised objections in Italy. Indeed, our government has expressed concerns regarding the impact of these measures on the national recycling supply chain. The Minister of Environment and Energy Security, Gilberto Pichetto, highlighted how the Italian model is already advanced and exceeds EU targets, and how the new regulations could pose a risk to local industry. The new European rules on packaging represent an important step toward a more sustainable future, with less waste and increased recycling. However, the implementation of these measures will require adaptations and investments from companies in the sector. For those operating in the cardboard packaging industry, these new rules represent an opportunity to innovate and adopt greener practices, thereby strengthening their position in the market and contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment for all. See also: “Climate change and environmental impact: summer 2023 the hottest”
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