Single-use plastic products end up as litter in our environment far too often and pollute the oceans. To combat littering, cities must significantly step up their cleanup efforts and public awareness campaigns.
Until two years ago, local governments – and thus taxpayers – were paying for this. According to the German Federal Environment Agency, the disposal and cleanup of single-use plastics and cigarette filters alone cost around 434 million euros annually.
What has changed?
The Single-Use Plastic Fund Act (EWKFondsG) is a step toward the consistent implementation of extended producer responsibility.
The key point: Starting in early 2024, these enormous costs will now be recovered directly from those responsible. Manufacturers will pay mandatory fees into the central single-use plastic fund. Cities and municipalities will then receive reimbursement for their cleanup costs from this fund.
The first payment from manufacturers was made in 2025 based on the quantities placed on the market in 2024.
Who is required to pay?
“Manufacturers” as defined by the law are liable for payment. This includes all companies that first make the affected single-use plastic products available on the German market. Importers and certain online retailers may also be affected if they place these products on the market.
All affected companies must register on the DIVID platform and report their annual sales volumes.
Which products are affected?
The levy applies to the following product groups:
- Tobacco products: Cigarettes and tobacco products with filters (highest levy rate).
- To-go packaging: Food containers for immediate consumption, beverage cups, and beverage containers (up to 3 liters).
- Flexible packaging: Bags and film packaging for food (e.g., potato chip bags).
- Carry bags: Lightweight plastic carry bags.
- Hygiene products: Wet wipes.
- Balloons: For private use (excluding industrial/commercial use).
- New in 2026: Fireworks containing plastic.
How much are the fees?
The rates are calculated in euros per kilogram of the quantity placed on the market:
- Tobacco products (filters): €8.972/kg
- Balloons: €4.340/kg
- Lightweight plastic carrier bags: €3.801/kg
- Drink cups: €1.236/kg
- Bags and plastic film packaging: €0.876/kg
- Non-deposit beverage containers: €0.181/kg
- Food containers (to-go): €0.177/kg
- Wet wipes: €0.061/kg
Why is this relevant?
The new regulation shifts costs more toward where the products are brought to market. This is intended to relieve the burden on municipalities and hold manufacturers more accountable.
The system creates economic incentives for more environmentally friendly materials and more reusable solutions. Those who produce less single-use plastic pay less – this conserves resources and sustainably reduces litter.
Contact us for comprehensive advice on your compliance issues relating to electrical and electronic equipment, packaging, batteries, and PV panels.
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