The SINGLE USE PLASTICS DIRECTIVE

The Single-Use Plastics Directive (SUPD) has become one of the European Union’s most effective environmental instruments, significantly advancing efforts to reduce single-use plastic waste and marine litter. At a time when plastic pollution continues to threaten ecosystems, biodiversity and human health, the Directive has provided regulatory clarity and a strong signal that unnecessary single-use plastics must be phased out. 

Our position paper highlights three priorities:

1. Protect the distinction between plastics and non-plastic natural polymer alternatives
Maintaining the clear, science‑based exclusion of non‑chemically modified natural polymers from the definition of plastics is essential for environmental integrity, regulatory clarity, and facilitating fair and informed material choices in the market.

2. Ensure consistent, science-based verification of materials
The EU needs a harmonised methodology to determine whether packaging materials fall inside or outside the plastic definition. Clear verification will support enforcement, prevent loopholes, and ensure a level playing field across Member States.

3. Support substitution where it delivers a clear sustainability benefit
While prevention and reuse remain the priority, natural polymer materials offer a credible, low‑impact alternative in hard-to-reuse applications where plastic dominates today: from takeaway formats to coated fibre products.