Prepare for ban on plastic disposables

The fight against litter, the ban on single-use plastics, deposits on cans and the plastictax... The discussion on these topics has surely not escaped anyone's attention in recent times. The measures affect all consumers and laws and regulations must also be complied with by businesses to promote a more sustainable future. From 1 January 2024, the ban banning on-site consumption of plastic disposables, including plastic-coated cardboard materials, will come into force. As experts in the non-food hospitality sector, Facility Trade Group is happy to cover the details of the ban, as well as the promotion of reusable alternatives.

The government has been taking actions since 2021 to reduce the amount of cans and plastic in nature, among other things. The measures to reduce the use of disposable plastic products, among other things, is also known as the Single Use Plastic (SUP) Directive. The changes taking place have significant impact on the hospitality and food industry. A ban on disposable plastic products, such as straws, stirrers and cotton buds, has been in place since July 2021. Many hotels have already replaced plastic straws with paper, bamboo or metal. 

Since 1 July 2023, plastic-containing food containers for consumption on the go, collection or delivery may no longer be offered free of charge. Customers will pay a small fee for using disposable cups and containers. In addition, it is mandatory to offer a reusable alternative or encourage the bring your own principle. 

From 1 January 2024, all catering establishments will be banned from providing single-use plastic cups and meal containers for on-site (on-site) consumption. It will then also no longer be possible to offer disposable products containing plastic at a surcharge or extra charge. 

Single-use plastic-free products and reusable containers, cups and glasses are becoming the norm. Besides promoting reusable alternatives, the government encourages the implementation of a deposit system. This system will encourage the collection and recycling of plastic disposables. There may also be a role for your company in this. 

Facility Trade Group is an independent facility wholesaler in the field of non-food catering products, cleaning systems and machines and hygiene facilities. 

To comply with laws and regulations, Facility Trade Group has expanded its product range to include plastic-free items and, for example, reusable coffee cups have been added to the range. Arjan Bolink, Marketing Manager Facility Trade Group explains: "From a sustainability perspective, we want to make the greatest possible contribution to reducing disposable plastic. Therefore, in addition to recycling, we are fully committed to disposables without plastic. Last year, we expanded our range with biodegradable and compostable packaging materials such as bagasse (made from sugar cane fibres), palm leaf, wood, bamboo and responsible cardboard. These materials offer a more eco-friendly option for food and beverage packaging, while still meeting the required functionality and safety. In addition, many products carry certifications such as the FSC label and the EU Ecolabel. By using these certified products, hotels can ensure that their choice of sustainable disposables is reliable and responsible."

In the fight to reduce plastic waste, there are also plans to ban breakfast buffet minis such as jam and mini bottles of shampoo, shower gel, lotion and soaps wrapped in plastic. Bolink: "Fortunately, there are practical and appropriate alternatives that ensure the same level of guest experience. Instead of small shampoo bottles or individual soaps, we offer refillable pump dispensers. These dispensers come in a variety of materials and designs. From a simple plastic version to a luxurious stainless steel or chrome one. There is always a dispenser to match the room design." What is certain is that The European Commission considers breakfast minis and hotel room amenities completely unnecessary. Banning is imminent, but it is currently unclear what the exact legislation will look like and when it will take effect.