In May 2019, the Council of the European Union adopted the Single-Use Plastics (SUP) directive proposed by the Juncker Commission as an essential element of its Circular Economy Action Plan to reduce marine plastic litter. Until May next year, the EU member states have to implement this directive into their national legislation, leading to a ban of these corresponding products from the market, whenever affordable alternatives are available. As a result, obligatory tethered caps and lids are about to be introduced, which will be designed to remain attached to bottles. This is valid for all beverage containers up to three liters, five years after the entry into force of the directive. Thus, this decision will oblige EU producers, retailers and manufacturers, as well as importers, to implement new closures by May 2024. Beyond Europe, other countries and states — for example, in the U.S. — are aiming at similar measures.
Here, Vincent Le Guen, vice president of packaging at Sidel, answers questions about the new regulation to explain how to prepare for the change, as well as the challenges and solutions.