Joint industry letter on the impact of the proposed EPS ban in France

The safe delivery of products to consumers' homes heavily depends on expanded polystyrene (EPS) used in packaging. EPS buffers are key to protect large, heavy and fragile goods during production, transportation and storage, including small appliances, as well as heating and cooling equipment.

The proposed EPS ban in France would restrict the use of styrenic polymers or co-polymers in packaging starting from 1 January 2025, unless these can be integrated into a recycling system.

APPLiA, Eurovent and LightingEurope outlined the key concerns around the French proposal in a joint industry letter to Commissioner Virginijus Sinkevičius:

• Disruption of the EUSingleMarket. The introduction of such legislation would disrupt free trade across the continent. Any measures taken at national level should not only be in line with local sustainability goals, but also with the principles and regulations governing the Single Market.
• Risk of infringement under the French Law. Companies are working to enhance the end-of-life management of EPS packaging all across Europe, including in France. However, the establishment of a comprehensive waste treatment framework would not be feasible by January 2025, posing a risk of potential infringement consequences under the French Law.

Our industries are committed to working towards a future where EPS packaging is recycled effectively, minimising environmental impact while supporting our industry's growth.