Obligations of companies producing packaging under the Single Use Plastic Directive

The most important assumptions of the SUP directive

The Single Use Plastics Directive covers products most frequently found in marine litter—such as cups, bottles, cutlery, plates, cotton buds, and straws. The European Union aims to restrict their use and introduce producer responsibility systems.

The basic mechanisms of the directive include:

• a ban on the placing on the market of certain disposable products, including plastic cutlery, plates, stirrers, straws and expanded polystyrene (EPS) containers;

• the obligation to label products that contain plastic, e.g. wet wipes or cigarette filters;

• a consumption reduction target for selected product categories, such as cups and food containers;

• a requirement for the share of recycled material in new plastic bottles (at least 25% from 2025 and 30% from 2030);

• Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes – covering financing of waste collection, clean-up and treatment by producers.

The directive also imposes obligations on data reporting and informing consumers about the impact of plastic on the environment.

Which companies are subject to the Single Use Plastics Regulation?

The Single Use Plastics Directive applies not only to large packaging manufacturers, but also to companies that market products in plastic packaging, regardless of their size. It covers, among other things:

• producers of packaging and disposable items,

• importers and distributors,

• catering and food service companies using disposable packaging,

• retail chains introducing products in plastic packaging.

In practice, this means that even small businesses that use plastic cups, trays or packaging must adapt to the new rules and keep records of the quantities of products introduced.

Impact of regulations on the packaging market and the food industry

The Single Use Plastics Directive has introduced significant changes to the way companies operating in the food, food service, and packaging sectors operate. Many products have had to be withdrawn from the market or replaced with biodegradable alternatives.

Packaging manufacturers are currently investing in the development of technologies that enable the creation of reusable or fully recyclable packaging. The food service industry is increasingly using paper-based, compostable, or plant-based packaging.

However, these changes also have an economic impact – the rising costs of alternative raw materials and the obligation to finance waste collection systems are forcing businesses to reassess their business models.

The importance of new regulations for businesses

The SUP Directive introduces the principle that responsibility for waste does not end with the sale of a product. Manufacturers who place packaging on the market must consider its entire life cycle – from production, through use, and recycling.

In practice, this means:

• the need to adapt packaging designs to recycling requirements,

• participation in EPR systems that finance waste collection and processing,

• the obligation to report data on the number of introduced packaging,

• Monitoring the recyclate content in bottles and packaging.

  Implementing these requirements requires cooperation with recovery organizations, recycling companies, and public administration.

How to prepare your company to comply with the SUP directive

1. Identify products covered by the directive – check if your packaging or products contain single-use plastic.

2. Evaluate material substitution – consider biodegradable or compostable alternatives.

3. Adjust labeling – products must have clear information about plastic content.

4. Apply to the EPR system – choose an organization that will help you settle your financial obligations.

5. Keep records and reports – document the quantities of packaging introduced and its material composition.

   It is also worth monitoring updates to national regulations, as implementation of the SUP Directive may vary across the European Union.

Support for companies regarding single-use plastics regulations

Companies producing or using single-use packaging increasingly require assistance in assessing compliance with EU regulations. We support companies in assessing their obligations under the Single Use Plastics Directive, preparing EPR-compliant procedures, and developing strategies to adapt their products to the requirements of the circular economy. This allows them to operate legally and remain competitive in the European market.