What restrictive measures are in place for single-use plastics? What are the current and expected trends in Hungary and internationally?
In this post, we’ll look at this issue in detail, with a special focus on single-use plastic products already on the ban list.
Factors justifying restrictions on single-use plastics
The reason behind the global limitation is the increased amount of waste accumulating in nature. There are daunting examples of figures published by the European Commission showing that 80 percent of the garbage accumulating in the seas and oceans is plastic.
Even more worrying is the fact that much of this waste is slowly decomposing plastic. In other words, once in the water, it not only accumulates in the seas and oceans but also slowly builds up in aquatic life. So single-use plastic also enters the human food chain, posing a serious health risk.
Single-use plastics banned at EU level
Straws made from single-use plastic have perhaps received the most publicity in this area. Along with them, the use of single-use forks, knives, spoons, and plates is also affected.
Also included are ear sticks made from single-use plastic and sticks for balloons. Oxidatively degradable plastics, food holders, and cups made using expanded polystyrene are also banned.
As the European Union expects the Member States to comply with the directives from 2021, the Hungarian legislator has decided that the use of the above single-use plastic products and packaging materials will be banned in Hungary from 1 July 2021.
Hungarian legislation even exceeds EU requirements. Besides, the Hungarian legislation includes a restriction on the use of plastic bags.
Expected trends in the restriction of single-use plastics
As for the trends in restrictive measures, it’s expected that the rules and options for single-use plastics will be further tightened. After all, reducing the rate of global warming and reducing pollution are common interests.
Only through sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives and a circular economy are it possible to improve the relevant processes. Accordingly, the use of single-use plastics should be minimized as far as possible. This is one of our efforts in our production processes.
