Solutions to YOUR Packaging Needs - Flipbook - Page 3
Why - Some Q&A
Q: Why such a focus on these particular products?
A: This initiative and ban targets the top ten single-use plastic items currently
found on European beaches.
•According to the EU’s SUPD proposal, plastic makes up 80–85% of marine litter.
•Of this, single-use plastics are believed to make up 50% of that marine
litter. Plastics represent more than 90% of the litter collected on European
beaches.
•The SUPD has defined different measures that are dependent on the availability of
alternative, sustainable products.
•Specific products are being outright banned whereas Extended Producer
Responsibility (EPR) schemes are also included.
Q: What polymers are not banned in this new directive?
A: The SUP Directive does not ban the following:
•A polymer that is found in nature and not chemically altered may be allowed.
The polymer may have physical action applied to it, such a flotation or
gravitational techniques, but not be chemically altered. See section 2.1.1. of
the Directive for more detail on polymer definition, etc.
•Cellulose can be an example of this. See section 2.1.2 for more information.
•A polymer contained in an ink or paint is exempt. For more information, see
section 2.2.2.
•Monomers are OK vs. polymers which generally are not.
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