Proposal for a protection directive for workers from ionizing radiation risks has been solicited by the Commission.
The Federal Environment Agency (UBA) in Berlin has made a decision that has sparked controversy - the packaging of a 750-gram Stollen in foil now falls under the Single-Use Plastic Waste Fund Act (EWKFondsG). This classification means the plastic film packaging is considered a single-use product.
The Central Association of German Crafts (ZDH) has expressed opposition to this decision, with President Jörg Dittrich voicing displeasure. The industry views this as an example of excessive regulation that ignores everyday life.
Dittrich considers it unrealistic that the UBA classifies the Stollen as a typical take-away product. He believes the new regulations threaten to become a competitive disadvantage for the crafts industry.
The crafts industry criticizes the new regulations as an additional bureaucratic burden. Smaller bakeries find the new regulations, which include registration, proof of compliance, and payments, difficult to manage.
The UBA maintains that manufacturers could switch to other, plastic-free packaging. However, whether this switch is economically feasible remains open. A price increase in the cent range "cannot be ruled out" due to the additional costs.
The UBA's decision is intended to help distribute disposal costs for packaging waste more fairly. Repeated criticism of the UBA's classification practice has been expressed, with a KPMG study pointing out inconsistencies with the legal basis.
There is concern that the law could affect other traditional packaging forms in the future. The consequences of the law could extend to numerous everyday products, not just baked goods. The industry worries about potential price increases in the cent range due to additional costs.
The ZDH, led by Dittrich, argues that these new regulations will make it difficult for the crafts industry to compete. They fear that the new regulations will place an undue burden on their businesses.
The Federal Environment Agency has defended its decision, stating that it is necessary to reduce single-use plastic waste. However, the debate continues, with both sides presenting compelling arguments. The future of packaging for traditional baked goods remains uncertain.
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