The European Union (EU) has unveiled a new strategy on plastics as part its efforts to protect the environment from plastic pollution.
Under the new strategy, EU intends to turn all plastic packaging into recyclable by 2030, in addition to reducing the use of single-use plastics and microplastics.
EU is planning to prepare new rules on packaging to increase the recycling of plastics used on the market and demand for recycled plastic content.
The measures will also include the restricted use of microplastics in products and label fixation for biodegradable and compostable plastics.
New rules on port reception facilities will help to reduce sea-based marine litter, as well as decrease the administrative pressure on ports, ships and competent authorities.
The commission will guide national authorities and European businesses to reduce plastic waste at source.
With an additional €100m fund, the commission will help to develop smarter recyclable plastics materials and remove hazardous substances and contaminants from recycled plastics.
In addition, the commission will collaborate with partners across the globe to reduce the plastic pollution.
According to the commission, Europeans generate 25 million tonnes of plastic waste, of which less than 30% is collected for recycling.
European Commission first vice president Frans Timmermans said: “If we don't change the way we produce and use plastics, there will be more plastics than fish in our oceans by 2050.
“We must stop plastics getting into our water, our food, and even our bodies. The only long-term solution is to reduce plastic waste by recycling and reusing more. This is a challenge that citizens, industry and governments must tackle together.”
