EU ban on disposable packaging to increase costs

A proposed EU deal bans restaurants and cafes from using disposable packaging for dine-in guests, potentially raising costs for the industry. Mikal Holt Jensen from Horesta warns of increased expenses for water and labor. He calls for environmental impact assessments to ensure measures like washing dishes are more sustainable than using disposable packaging. EU data reveal a rise in packaging waste per person in 2021. The industry is working on solutions, like recyclable materials and reusable service trials, to cut down on one-time packaging use. Horesta emphasizes the importance of a sound knowledge base for the right environmental solutions. The agreement is preliminary and must be voted through by the EU Parliament and Council before becoming effective, expected by summer.