European Parliament to Decide on Contentious Rule Potentially Affecting Billions in Finnish Businesses

The European Parliament is set to vote on a packaging waste regulation aimed at reducing waste and overpackaging, as well as increasing reuse. The proposed legislation has the potential to save the EU over 47 billion euros in economic costs, according to the Commission. The regulation would prohibit overpackaging and single-use packaging for fruits, vegetables, and small shampoo bottles in hotels. However, with more than 500 amendment proposals on the table, MEPs anticipate a complicated and difficult vote.

The Government of Finland has expressed concerns about the impact of reducing packaging on food waste and food 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.

Despite this majority support, there have been criticisms from various sectors. The food and brewing industries in Finland have raised concerns about increased costs and negative environmental impacts resulting from reuse goals. MEPs have expressed dissatisfaction with the Commission’s proposal, arguing that it does not adequately consider life cycle thinking and could lead to unsustainable practices.

The majority of members of the European Parliament’s environment committee supported the proposal to offer at least 20 percent of non-alcoholic beverages in reusable packaging by 2030 to reduce packaging waste. However, concerns have been raised about potential costs and environmental impact on specific sectors such as food and brewing industries. Additionally, MEPs have criticized the Commission’s insufficient impact assessments for this proposal.

Overall, while this regulation has its benefits for reducing waste and promoting sustainability, it is clear that there are still many discussions needed to ensure that its implementation is successful without causing negative consequences for certain industries or individuals involved.