Plastics are omnipresent - from packaging to everyday products and medical devices. However, the widespread use of plastics is also associated with serious environmental problems, such as ocean pollution and the waste of valuable resources. To tackle these challenges and shape a more sustainable future, the European Union launched the EU Plastics Strategy in 2018.

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.

Important goals and measures

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

• Recycling-friendly design: By 2030, all plastic packaging in the EU should be designed in such a way 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 standardized collection to facilitate recycling.
• Increase the proportion of recycled material: A key objective is to increase the proportion of recycled plastics in new products.
• Reduction of single-use plastics: Single-use products, which often pollute the environment, are to be drastically reduced through bans and restrictions.
• Labeling of compostable plastics: Clear requirements for the labeling of compostable and biodegradable plastics should help to promote more environmentally friendly options.
• Combating microplastics: Measures to reduce microplastic pollution - whether from tire abrasion, textiles or paints - are also in focus.
• Promoting innovation and investment: The EU is focusing on new technologies and investments to develop sustainable solutions for the plastics industry.

The significance for the future

The EU Plastics Strategy is a decisive step towards a greener future. Single-use plastics are one of 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.