blog
How to settle single-use packaging according to the SUP Directive?
Waste management regulations that food service businesses must comply with came into effect as early as 2023.
These regulations are the result of a 2019 European Union directive aimed at reducing the environmental impact of single-use plastic products. Some provisions took effect in 2023, while others, particularly those related to fees, came into force in 2024.
Do you own a local business, restaurant, or grocery store? Take care of the settlement of single-use packaging according to the Single Use Plastic (SUP) Directive today.
Why? If you don’t do this, you may face penalties.
In this article, you learn the rules for settling single-use plastic packaging. You see how to implement the regulations in practice.
Single-use packaging subject to reporting
According to the regulations, all single-use packaging made entirely or partially from plastics is subject to reporting, settlements, and fees. If you operate a food service business, this applies to all packaging used for takeout that is not intended for multiple uses. According to the regulations, the need for settlement is determined by the distribution and intended use of the product, not just by the possibility of reusing the packaging.
The best example are plastic cups in which you serve coffee or food containers. For these, you must charge fees and include them in the statistics.
The goal of the SUP directive is primarily to reduce the use of such packaging and encourage entrepreneurs to adopt eco-friendly alternatives. The introduction of fees for single-use packaging aims to discourage consumers from purchasing them and to promote less harmful environmental solutions.
How does the system for single-use packaging fees work?
As of January 1, 2024, mandatory fees apply for the use of single-use plastic packaging in retail, food service, and vending machines. They are charged to customers of food service businesses. These fees cover drink cups, food containers, and other packaging listed in the law. The fee amount is fixed and amounts to 0.20 PLN for cups and 0.25 PLN for food containers.
In the table, you find a summary of all plastic packaging that must be settled in the BDO system. It includes the exact values that need to be provided in the reports submitted as part of the BDO statement.
Check here
Obligations of food service entrepreneurs
Do you run a business in the food service industry? Collecting fees from end users for single-use packaging is not the only obligation. You must be registered in the BDO registry and maintain a detailed record of the number of packaging purchased and distributed.
The fee for packaging placed on the market must be indicated on the sales documents (e.g., on the receipt, invoice, or bill), and its amount must include VAT.
You must also provide customers with the option to choose alternative packaging or the option to purchase without using single-use packaging (for example, using their own containers). Some of the alternative solutions your food service business can offer include reusable or biodegradable packaging.
How to keep a record of single-use packaging?
Practical tips.
The record of packaging placed on the market can be in paper or electronic form. It is necessary to register the number of purchased and distributed single-use plastic products with specific characteristics (e.g., weight, type, dimensions).
Why register packaging?
It will enable regulatory authorities to monitor consumption in accordance with national and European Union regulations, helping you avoid financial consequences.
Non-compliance with the SUP regulations and BDO reporting obligations may result in penalties. When filling out reports, it's important to be precise and accurate. If you need assistance, consult experienced specialists.
Such support is provided by bdomat, which will help you settle packaging. Professional help means no errors and the ability to focus on running your business.
BDO i SUP: What challenges does your business face?
The implementation of SUP regulations comes with challenges, including, for example, adapting sales systems. This, in turn, may require changes in your business's software and procedures and/or integration with other e-commerce platforms. Such changes often require time, financial resources, and employee training to ensure they understand the regulations and can effectively apply them in their daily work.
With the right action plan and expert assistance, you can not only effectively meet the challenges of SUP and BDO but also gain significant benefits from the implemented system.
Such benefits include improved management and greater customer satisfaction, as they will appreciate your environmental protection efforts. This, in turn, can help build a positive image of your business in the market.
It could cost a lot:
The most common mistakes when settling single-use packaging
One of the most common mistakes that can occur in the waste management process and SUP requirements is the lack of registration in the BDO registry or improper record-keeping. The BDO registry, or the Waste Database, is a key tool that enables regulatory authorities to monitor the flow of waste.
To avoid errors in the BDO registry, every entrepreneur should ensure the regular updating of data, including information on the quantity and types of packaging placed on the market. It is also important to remember the necessity of regularly preparing documentation regarding the packaging placed on the market.
The regulations regarding single-use packaging will change. It is your responsibility to stay up to date with the latest requirements in this area.
Key data on plastic packaging
Below, you will find a table containing key information about packaging. The values in the table are only approximate to help estimate the weight of the packaging distributed. Precise data regarding each packaging item are derived from, among other sources, product specifications, purchase invoices, and manufacturer data. This information is crucial for any food service business that has obligations under the SUP directive. Familiarize yourself with these details to properly manage the process of recording and calculating fees for packaging placed on the market.
Packaging settlements – future outlook
In light of EU regulations, reducing the amount of single-use plastic packaging is a step towards more sustainable development. The SUP Directive presents new challenges for businesses but also opens up many opportunities. Proper preparation and implementation of the regulations will help you build a strong position as an environmentally conscious company and contribute to the protection of the natural environment.
Do you need help with packaging settlements?
The good news is that you don't have to do it alone! That's what bdomat is for. We will help you start and manage the formalities related to BDO and SUP.
This way, you can avoid the stress of forgetting deadlines or incorrectly settling packaging. Step by step, we will guide you easily through the registration process and ensure that you stay up to date with reports and the latest regulations. You will know exactly what to do and how to do it in your business.
Simply write to us or give us a call. A bdomat expert will clearly explain what needs to be done, step by step, in a friendly atmosphere.
(+48) 17 230 49 70
kontakt@bdomat.pl