France | Ban on Non - Recyclable Polystyrene Packaging

The French authorities have made a strategic decision to extend the timeframe for phasing out non-recyclable styrenic packaging. Originally marked for elimination by 2025, the transition period has been lengthened until 2030, providing manufacturers with the necessary leeway to innovate and develop sustainable recycling solutions in alignment with national and impending EU regulations.

In alignment with France's climate commitments and resilience initiatives, the prohibition targets packaging composed wholly or partially of non-recyclable polymers, specifically styrenic copolymers not yet suited to current recycling processes. This measure, reflecting a proactive stance since its inception in 2021, aims to harmonize with the ambitious goals set by the European Union's packaging and packaging waste directive (PPWR).

Despite the industry’s efforts to conform to this law, the complexity of creating viable recycling channels has been recognized, prompting this legislative adjustment. With this postponement, France reaffirms its dedication to achieving European recycling ambitions, ensuring all packaging will be recyclable by the 2030 horizon and fostering industrial-scale recycling by 2035.