Global Plastic Packaging Regulations Tighten: Navigating Health and Environmental Challenges

Russia to Ban Certain PET Packaging Materials by 2025

Russia has announced that, starting on September 1, 2025, the production and use of certain types of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) packaging will be prohibited. Specific measures include:

- A ban on the use of PET bottles for food products, with the exception of blue, white, green, brown, and clear bottles.

- A ban on the production and use of multi-layer PET bottles.

- A prohibition on the use of PVC labels on PET packaging, although shrink sleeve labels will remain permitted.

This initiative aims to improve recycling efficiency and enhance safety, while encouraging the use of more environmentally friendly and health-conscious packaging materials.

U.S. Study Raises Concerns Over Black Plastics and Chemical Risks

In the U.S., a recent study by the environmental advocacy group Toxic-Free Future has highlighted potential health risks associated with black plastic products, particularly those containing flame retardants. The study tested 203 household items made from black plastic and found that 85% contained toxic flame retardants. Many of these plastics are derived from recycled electronics, such as TV casings, which may contain outdated hazardous chemicals like DecaBDE. When these recycled plastics are repurposed in consumer goods, they may release harmful chemicals, posing a potential health risk.

EU Imposes Full BPA Ban, Strengthening Food Packaging Safety

In Europe, the European Commission has passed a comprehensive ban on the use of Bisphenol A (BPA) in food contact materials, effective December 19, 2024. This move, based on the latest scientific findings, reflects growing concerns over public health and food safety. While PET typically does not contain BPA, the EU has recommended using single-material PET packaging to minimize the risk of chemical migration and further protect consumers.

Canadian Plastics Pact 2023-24 Report Highlights Progress on Sustainability Goals

The Canadian Plastics Pact (CPP) has released its 2023-24 Impact Report, detailing its progress in driving sustainability within the plastic packaging industry. The report underscores CPP’s commitment to eliminating unnecessary plastic packaging and enhancing packaging recyclability and compostability. By 2023, 50% of packaging introduced by CPP partners was designed to be reusable, recyclable, or compostable. Although recycling rates have slightly declined (down by 16%), CPP continues to foster innovation through cross-industry collaboration, advancing the transition toward a circular economy in plastic packaging.

Conclusion

As global plastic packaging regulations continue to tighten, the industry faces stricter health and environmental standards. These regulatory developments are set to drive a faster transition toward more sustainable, eco-friendly packaging materials, while simultaneously raising the bar for the industry’s future growth and innovation.

References

1. РИА Новости（Oct 10 ，2024）|Три вида ПЭТ-упаковки запретят производить в России с сентября 2025 года

2. Frontline（Dec 23, 2024）|Potential Cancer-Causing Chemicals Found in Black Spatulas and Takeaway Containers: Time to Throw Them Out?

3. Recycling Today（Dec 27, 2024）|Canada Plastics Pact releases 2023-24 Impact Report

4. European Commission（Dec 19，2024）|Commission adopts ban of Bisphenol A in food contact materials