Single-use plastics, such as coffee cups, are set to be banned in the EU by 2030, in order to counter pollution. The strategy was announced by the European Commission, following China’s decision to ban imports of foreign waste products for recycling, including huge quantities from Europe.
The goal is that all plastic packaging on the EU market will be recyclable or reusable by 2030.
“The commission aims to increase plastic recycling and for all plastic packaging to be reusable or recyclable by 2030,” the executive said.
Around 26 million tonnes of plastic waste is generated in Europe every year, according to the Commission. However, less than 30 percent of such waste is collected for recycling. 70% of plastic waste is put in landfills or incinerated.
The Commission said its proposals also aim to create business opportunities by transforming the way plastic products are designed, produced and recycled in Europe.
