As of July 1, 2023, the SUP directive will take new follow-up steps. SUP stands for Singe Use Plastics. The huge amount of disposable plastic has a significant impact on the environment. Disposables must slowly but surely make way for reuse. Therefore, in 2019, the European Commission drafted a directive to reduce plastic waste.
The new follow-up steps cover disposable cups and food packaging made of plastic or with a plastic coating. In this, a distinction is made between consumption on the go, pickup and delivery and on-site consumption.
Almost everyone uses them: food packaging and disposable cups made of plastic or with a plastic coating. As of July 1, 2023, these packaging and cups may no longer be provided free of charge for delivery or on-the-go consumption. That includes the cardboard coffee cup and the heat-resistant meal box. Prepackaged food without preparation and portion packs are also covered by this SUP directive. These include milk cups, butter tubs and apple sauce containers.
As a provider, it is mandatory to charge a levy to the consumer. Guideline amounts range from €0.05 to €0.50, but this fee may be set at one's own discretion. In addition to this charge, it is also mandatory to offer a reusable alternative or allow consumers to take the container or cup with them. Think of a deposit system or the 'bring your own' principle.
As of January 1, 2024, SUP legislation goes one step further. Then there will be a complete ban on disposable plastic packaging for on-site consumption. This applies to cardboard materials with a plastic coating, but also to pre-packaged products such as milk cups and butter tubs.
So at events and in the hospitality industry, the use of single-use plastic is being banned. In the snack bar, the cafeteria, at a festival, but also in the office, reuse is becoming the norm. Reusable alternatives, such as tableware or washable plastic cups are being encouraged. As is setting up a deposit system.
Want to know more anout the SUP directive? Then check out the Frequently Asked Questions.