EU waste packaging rules: Why small businesses are worried

New European Union rules restricting forever chemicals in food packaging and setting binding packaging waste reduction targets took effect on Wednesday. The regulation phases in requirements over time, including a 2030 deadline for all packaging to be recyclable and bans on certain unnecessary single-use items, alongside waste reduction targets for 2030 and 2040. Some small businesses have paused shipments due to added administrative requirements, while one outlet reported the reduction targets were weakened by industry lobbying before taking effect.