EU Restriction on Certain Single-Use Plastics: What Changes in Stores, Chains, and QSR

The European Union (EU) has implemented new rules and regulations regarding single-use plastics in an effort to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainability. These regulations have implications for stores, chains, and Quick Service Restaurants (QSR). Let’s explore what the new EU rules say about single-use plastics, the Plastics Directive in the UK, and how these rules can impact the chains and QSR businesses. Additionally, we’ll discuss some solutions dedicated to chains and QSRs who are aiming to reduce the use of single-use plastic.

The EU’s new rules on single-use plastics aim to tackle the environmental impact of certain plastic products. The directive bans various items, including plastic cutlery, plates, straws, stirrers, balloon sticks, and cotton bud sticks. These plastic items will no longer be available for sale or distribution within the EU. The directive also sets targets for the reduction of other single-use plastics, such as beverage cups and food containers. This legislation encourages the use of more sustainable alternatives, promotes recycling, and emphasizes the importance of extended producer responsibility, that is, a policy approach in which a producer’s responsibility for a product is extended to the post-consumer stage of a product’s life cycle.

As for the UK, the Plastics Directive aligns with the EU regulations on single-use plastics. After leaving the EU, the UK has adopted similar measures to restrict and reduce the use of single-use plastics. This directive forms part of the UK’s commitment to addressing plastic waste and transitioning to a more sustainable economy. As of now, in the UK currently the ban only extends to polystyrene cups and lids. However, it is likely that businesses, particularly those with a wider European footprint, will adapt their operations in anticipation of the UK falling in line with the wider legislation at a later point.

The new EU rules on single-use plastics can have a significant impact on chains and QSR businesses. Many of these establishments heavily rely on single-use plastics for packaging, cutlery, and straws. With the ban on these items, businesses will need to find alternatives that are more sustainable and compliant with the regulations. This may require redesigning packaging, sourcing eco-friendly materials, and investing in new equipment or infrastructure.

The regulations also present an opportunity for chains and QSR businesses to enhance their sustainability efforts and appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. By actively adopting and promoting sustainable practices, these businesses can position themselves as leaders in the industry and attract customers who prioritise eco-friendly choices.

To reduce the use of single-use plastic and comply with the new regulations, chains and QSR businesses can explore various solutions:

• Sustainable Packaging: switching to biodegradable or compostable packaging materials made from renewable resources can significantly reduce the environmental impact.
• Reusable Options: implementing reusable options, such as refillable cups or containers, encourages customers to reduce their reliance on single-use plastics. Offering incentives, such as discounts or loyalty rewards, can further promote the use of reusable alternatives.
• Supplier Collaboration: collaborating with suppliers to find more sustainable packaging solutions can have a significant impact. Encouraging suppliers to use minimal or recyclable packaging and exploring alternatives together can help drive change throughout the supply chain.
• Business innovation: ensure that your business is equipped to streamline operations. This could be achieved by acquiring appliances that would facilitate the washing and drying of reusable cups. Electrolux Professional’s HeroDry combined undercounters and a hood type with dedicated drying system allow staff to waste little to no time thanks to their compact solution which helps reducing handling time and ensure having cleaned and dried items for the next customer. It also would ensure to maintain the same operational performance and encourage reusable cups usage.

HeroDry allows the user to dry up to 750 reusable cups per hour, at a temperature of 50 degrees Celsius, meaning that operators and staff would not need to waste time drying cups after washing.

By implementing these solutions, chains and QSRs can not only comply with the new EU and UK regulations but also demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship. Embracing sustainability can attract environmentally conscious consumers, build brand loyalty, and contribute to a more sustainable future.