New Belgian decree limits the use of single-use plastics

Belgium has taken further steps to reduce the impact of single-use plastics. On July 5, 2024, a new Royal Decree was published, requiring companies to limit the use of disposable plastics across various sectors. This decree, which aligns with European legislation on Single-use plastics (SUPs), aims to reduce the market availability of certain single-use products and encourage the use of more recycled content.

To give companies enough time to comply, the measures will be implemented in phases. As of July 2024, it is prohibited to serve beverages for immediate consumption in fully plastic disposable cups. Starting in January 2025, additional restrictions will follow, such as the ban on plastic wrappers for unaddressed advertising material wider than 15 cm. Further restrictions will be imposed in 2026 and 2028 on disposable packaging containing plastic, with a complete ban by 2030.

Adjustments for packaging and products

The Royal Decree outlines detailed rules on which plastic products will be banned and the minimum levels of recycled content required. Items at high risk of becoming litter, such as plastic sticks and unaddressed plastic-coated advertising material, will also be prohibited. Exceptions may apply for certain products due to food safety reasons or limited availability of alternative packaging. A biannual reassessment of the rules for these categories will take place.

Normecfoodcare.nl