Plastics are everywhere — from packaging to everyday products to medical devices. But the widespread use of plastics is also accompanied by serious environmental problems, such as ocean pollution and the waste of valuable resources. In order to meet these challenges and shape a more sustainable future, the European Union In 2018, the EU plastics strategy launched.

The development of the EU Plastics Strategy

The EU Plastics Strategy aims to fundamentally improve the entire life cycle of plastics — from production to disposal. This was a direct response to the urgent need to reduce the environmental impact of plastics without jeopardizing economic development.

Key goals and measures

The strategy comprises a variety of measures that focus on reducing single-use plastics, promoting recycling and minimizing environmental impact:

• Recyclable design: By 2030, all plastic packaging in the EU should be designed so that it can be reused or recycled efficiently.
• Improved collection and sorting: One of the biggest hurdles in recycling is the separation of plastic waste. The strategy calls for improved and uniform collection to facilitate recycling.
• Increasing the recycling rate: A key goal is to increase the proportion of recycled plastics in new products.
• Reducing single-use plastics: Single-use products, which often pollute the environment, are to be drastically reduced through bans and restrictions.
• Labeling compostable plastics: Clear requirements for labeling compostable and biodegradable plastics should help promote more environmentally friendly options.
• Combating microplastics: Measures to reduce microplastic pollution — whether due to tire abrasion, textiles or paints — are also in focus.
• Fostering innovation and investment: The EU is using new technologies and investments to develop sustainable solutions for the plastics industry.

The significance for the future

Die EU plastics strategy represents a decisive step towards a greener future. Single-use plastics are among the main causes of marine pollution and contribute to the depletion of non-renewable resources. Implementing this strategy could lay the foundations for a more environmentally conscious and resource-efficient economy.