European Hotels: "Stop" on single-use plastic packaging from 2030

The new European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) brings major changes to hotels and the catering industry.

The PPWR regulation, which was published in the Official Journal of the EU on January 22, 2025, bans certain types of single-use packaging, imposes mandatory reuse targets, and sets replenishment obligations.

As HOTREC Public Relations Director Marine Thizon states in an article, the changes coming to hotels, restaurants, snack bars, cafes and bars are as follows...

Ban on single-use plastic tableware (in stores)
From January 1, 2030, single-use plastic cutlery, plates, and trays will be banned in hotels, restaurants and cafes. Fast food restaurants in particular will have to adapt. However, some small businesses, including cafes, restaurants and beach bars, could be exempt if washing is not possible on-site.

Individual small quantities of plastic
Individual small quantities of sauces, sugar, coffee creamer, etc. will be banned from 2030, with the exception of takeaway products. Details are awaited to determine what will be affected or exempted by this regulation.

Hotel Toiletries
Small bottles of shower gel and shampoo will be phased out from 2030. Toiletries such as toothbrushes will be exempt or available at reception. This has not yet been clarified.

Bring your own container
From 2027, HORECA members will be required to accept guest containers for food and beverages, unless this is deemed unhygienic or inappropriate.

On-site reuse targets for beverages
By 2030, 10% of beverages consumed on-premises will be offered in reusable packaging.

Reuse targets for takeaway products
By 2028, HORECA members will be encouraged to offer 10% off takeaway products in reusable packaging.

What these changes mean for the industry

For some, the PPWR regulation means a complete overhaul of their packaging strategies, from guest amenities to food delivery. For others, not much will change. However, clear guidance on single-use product restrictions and reuse targets is needed, especially to understand how these targets are calculated, says Ms Thizon.

The regulation comes into force on 11 February 2025 and the Commission will publish answers to frequently asked questions next March. The process for secondary legislation and guidelines by the EU expert group on waste will start in the first half of 2025.

The PPWR aims to...

Prevent and reduce packaging waste, including through more reuse and replenishment schemes.
Make all packaging on the EU market recyclable in a cost-effective manner by 2030.
Safely increase the use of recycled plastics in packaging.
Reduce the use of virgin materials in packaging and put the sector on a climate-neutral path by 2050.

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