The European Parliament is set to vote on a packaging waste regulation that aims to reduce waste and overpackaging, while promoting reuse. However, with over 500 amendment proposals on the table, the vote is expected to be complicated and difficult.
The Government of Finland has expressed concerns about the potential impact of reducing packaging on food waste and safety. The final shape of the law will be determined through negotiations between the EU Commission, Parliament, and Council of member states.
In October, the environment committee of the European Parliament voted in favor of at least 20 percent of non-alcoholic beverages being offered in reusable packaging by 2030. However, this proposal has raised concerns among the food and brewing industries about increased costs and negative environmental impacts.
MEPs have criticized the Commission’s proposal for not considering life cycle thinking and leading to unsustainable practices. The majority of members supported the proposal, but there are still concerns about its potential impact on specific industries. MEPs have also called out inadequate impact assessments by the Commission.
Overall, while there are valid concerns about the impact of reducing packaging waste on specific industries, it is important for policymakers to continue working towards a more sustainable future for all.