Kick off 2026 with a competitive edge at PACK EXPO East. Register now!
Get a jump on your 2026 goals at PACK EXPO East. Put projects in motion, accelerate timelines and solve challenges—all in one trip to Philadelphia.

Recycling 'fees' in Europe may change

In the wake of various mandates for beverage packaging in several European countries, the next steps in recycling regulation will apply to all packaging, according to Recycling Laws International, a new newsletter from Raymond Communications (Riverdale, MD).

The European Union's new packaging Directive "will apply to all packaging-including medical, flexible and transport packaging," says David Perchard, RLI's European editor. "The EU will consider exemptions, and industry will have to make its case. But if your package gets [an exemption], individual countries can still regulate [your package] on their own." RLI shows the disparity in existing packaging fees. Packaging fees for paper in Germany are $255/ton, compared to $28.50/ton in Belgium. Plastic ranges from $45/ton in France to $1꽒.50/ton in Germany. And this is today. When the other 10-plus countries in the EU respond to the directive, each could have its own system with differing requirements.

Get a jump on your 2026 packaging & processing goals at PACK EXPO East.
Be the first to find what’s next in packaging & processing at PACK EXPO East. See new solutions from 500 exhibitors, uncover creative ideas for 40+ verticals and gain inspiration from free sessions on industry trends—all in one trip to Philadelphia.
REGISTER NOW & SAVE
Get a jump on your 2026 packaging & processing goals at PACK EXPO East.
Conveyor setup secrets from top CPG manufacturers
7 proven steps to eliminate downtime and boost packaging line efficiency. Free expert playbook reveals maintenance, sequencing, and handling strategies.
Read More
Conveyor setup secrets from top CPG manufacturers