Many restaurateurs continue to use disposable plastic tableware
Since 2021, disposable plastic tableware has been banned in the European Union. However, many caterers continue to ignore the regulations three years after the abolition, as reported by the German Environmental Aid (DUH) in Berlin on Tuesday. In a random sample of 14 out of 20 tested food outlets in Berlin, disposable burger boxes, plastic cutlery, plastic straws, and plastic-coated paper plates were offered. According to the DUH, the ban is "largely ineffective".
After the ban in 2021, caterers were still allowed to consume remaining stocks. However, the DUH argues that these stocks should have been "consumed long ago". The association therefore called on the authorities to "finally enforce the ban and consistently sanction violations".
Furthermore, the DUH warned against the increasing use of disposable tableware made of paper, cardboard, wood, or aluminum and advocated for a fee of at least 20 cents on disposable tableware. This would promote reusable systems. The named products are not banned, but according to the DUH, they have a similar poor environmental balance as plastic.
The ban on certain disposable plastic products came into force in Germany on July 3, 2021, and applies to cutlery, plates, drinking straws, toothpicks, and balloon sticks, as well as beakers including lids. It also applies to food containers for takeaway and Styrofoam (polystyrene) cups. The law aims to achieve a reduction in plastic waste.
Despite the ban on disposable plastic tableware being enforced for three years now, Abolition in 2021, many Restaurateurs in Berlin continue to offer these items. The DUH argues that also alternative materials like paper, cardboard, and aluminum, while not banned, can contribute to similar environmental issues.
