The world of disposable plastics is undergoing significant change. New regulations are coming into effect to reduce the use of disposable plastics. This is a great opportunity to learn about the sustainable alternatives of Circulware and future-proof your business.
Reuse is the new norm
Every day, 19 million disposable plastic cups and containers end up in the waste stream in the Netherlands, contributing to the environmental pollution problem. To address this, new measures have been introduced in 2023. Businesses will be required from July 1, 2023, to offer a reusable alternative at pickup and delivery services or accept packaging brought by the customer. Consumers will pay extra for disposable packaging to encourage reuse. From January 1, 2024, disposable packaging may no longer be offered for on-site consumption unless it is a high-quality recyclable alternative that meets strict conditions.
Motions
The House of Representatives recently passed three motions affecting these rules. One motion proposes abolishing the extra charge for disposable packaging when consuming on the go. The other two motions concern broadening exemptions for disposable packaging for on-site consumption, specifically for cups that contain less than 5% plastic, are properly collected and fully recyclable.
Although no final decision has yet been made, outgoing State Secretary Vivianne Heijnen has instructed the enforcement agency (ILT) to temporarily not enforce the mandatory extra charge for disposable plastic. The regulations will be re-evaluated in 2024, looking at their effectiveness. Based on experience and the results of the evaluation, the regulations may be adjusted. There is a real chance that enforcement will still take place and the rules will be tightened again.
Moreover, as an entrepreneur, you remain obliged to offer a reusable alternative or accept that customers bring their own reusable containers or cups. The ILT can still enforce this. Circulware supports this transition to a more sustainable future and offers practical, stylish solutions that contribute to the reduction of disposable plastic in the catering, take-away and event industries, among others.
European laws and regulations
These rules to combat disposable plastic stem from European regulations. Every member state must permanently reduce the use of disposable cups and containers. The Netherlands has a goal of using 40 percent less disposable plastic by 2026, compared to 2022. The rules are designed to meet that goal. If the motions remove these important parts of the regulations now, the goal will not be met. Meanwhile, the European obligation remains. Therefore, the secretary of state calls for choosing to reuse. We choose the world, what do you choose?
A sustainable alternative
Circulware offers a range of reusable products, such as. CirculBox, CirculCup, CirculBowl, CirculPlate, and cutlery, which are not only environmentally friendly but also stylish. These products are a perfect answer to the new environmental demands.
Our Circulware products are
- Environmentally friendly: Reduces waste and contributes to a cleaner planet.
- Stylish and practical: Circulware products are designed for both aesthetics and functionality.
- Versatile use: Suitable for offices, hospitality and events.
New regulations around disposable plastic are an important step toward a more sustainable future. But why wait for the regulations? You can make a difference right now.
