EWKFondsG
Information about the SUP (Single-Use-Plastik)
The Single-Use Plastics Fund is an important initiative in the fight against plastic waste and environmental pollution. It was introduced to increase recycling rates and reduce the environmental impact of single-use plastics. It operates under the Single-Use Plastics Fund Act (EWKFG), which defines the obligations of manufacturers and importers.
The term ‘single-use plastic’ refers to plastic products that are manufactured for single use and are usually thrown away after use, such as drinking cups, plastic bags, cutlery, straws or packaging. Single-use plastic is problematic because it decomposes very slowly and therefore contributes significantly to environmental pollution. It is particularly harmful to the environment in bodies of water and landfill sites as it can harm animals and is difficult to break down.
Who has the obligation?
Producers and importers (as initial distributors) who place products such as disposable cups, plastic bags and other single-use plastics on the market must ensure proper reporting and,
where applicable, that levies are paid. Organizations involved in the recycling or collection of single-use plastics also apply the regulations.
Which obligation?
This concerns the reporting and submission obligations of producers of single-use plastics. They must regularly report the quantities of single-use plastic products placed on the market to DIVID, the German Environment Agency’s Single-Use Plastics Fund platform. This helps to keep track of the quantity of products in circulation.
Consequences of Non-compliance
Failure to comply with EWKFG obligations may result in penalties. Companies that neglect reporting requirements or levy payments could face fines or other legal consequences. In Germany, fines for environmental regulation violations may reach thousands of euros or higher. Authorities may also impose additional measures, such as suspending specific operations or temporarily shutting down non-compliant businesses.
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ECOPV-EU GmbH supports you in complying with legal requirements, and attaches particular importance to our environment. Correct and transparent implementation is the measure of all things. So why not do something good for our environment?
Specific Requirements for Manufacturers according to EWKFondsG
Authorized Representatives
Manufacturers/Producers located outside Germany must appoint an authorized representative based in Germany to fulfill certain producer obligations under the EWKFondsG.
Registrations
Similar to packaging, there is a registration requirement for Single-Use-Plastics, which is processed through DIVID, the German Environment Agency's Single-Use Plastics Fund platform.
Quantity reports
Manufacturers/Producers must regularly report the quantities they place on the market. This helps to keep track of the quantity of products in circulation.
The German act on the Disposable Plastics Fund (Disposable Plastics Fund Act)
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FAQs
What is SUP?
Single-use plastics refer to plastic products designed to be used only once or for a short period before being discarded, typically including plastic bags, cutlery (such as forks, knives, and straws), food packaging, beverage cups, and plastic bottles.
The intention of the Single-Use Plastics Directive is to reduce the impact of certain plastic products on the environment.
Who does the Single-Use Plastics Fund Act apply to?
The law applies to companies established in Germany that commercially supply or sell these products for the first time on the German market. Foreign-based companies that sell these single-use plastic products via distance selling to Germany are also subject to the law.
What are sigle-use plastic products?
According to Section 3 subparagraph 1 EWKFondsG, A single-use plastic product refers to a product made wholly or partly of plastic that is not designed to be reused or refilled during its lifecycle (e.g., by returning to the producer for refilling or repurposing for its original function).
Which products fall under the Single-Use Plastics Fund Act?
According to Annex 1 of the EWKFondsG, since January 1, 2024, eight categories of single-use plastic products (e.g. food containers, beverage cups, wet wipes and so on) are subject to the Act. Fireworks will also be added to the list effective January 1, 2026.
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