Plastic recyclers comment on the ongoing problem of low plastic collection rates in the U.S.; criticize soft drink companies for fighting introduction of bottle deposit tax, call for collection rate to rise from 30% to 70%
Recyclability guidelines for paper-based packaging
New Confederation of European Paper Industries (CEPI) guidelines address designing paper-based packaging for recycling, aimed to be generally applicable to European markets
Call for binding packaging quotas in Germany
German NGOs and industry associations urge national government to introduce binding quotas for reusable beverage containers; say national target of 70% by 2022 will not be achieved unless progressive steps introduced, discount stores adapt, consumer habits change
EC to abandon non-toxic environment strategy
EU Commission considers stopping work on the EU’s non-toxic environment strategy in the presently foreseen form; industry welcomes the news, NGOs call it a ‘scandal’
EFSA risk assessment of MOAH in infant formula
Rapid risk assessment uses data submitted by member states, previous Foodwatch study; finds 95th percentile exposure of 0.8 to 44.6 µg/kg body weight per day; lack of data leads EFSA to conclude possible concern for human health
BEUC cautions regulators on innovation
European Consumer Organization (BEUC) position document stresses importance of putting consumer and societal needs first, ensuring public money is spent on public goods; shares concerns about ‘Innovation Principle’
Germany to promote bioplastic packaging
German Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture calls for projects to develop new bio-based plastic food packaging; project proposals can be submitted until January 31 and March 31, 2019
Report on transition to safer chemicals
EU Directorate General for Environment publishes Chemicals Innovation Action Agenda setting out priority action areas to scale investment and innovation in safer chemicals; reviews experiences from ‘frontrunner companies’ and lessons learned in substituting substances
BfR answers questions on PFAS and aluminum
German risk assessment institute publishes answers to common questions regarding per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and aluminum, including exposure sources and pathways, health risks, regulatory limits; releases position statement on aluminum intake, recommends avoiding use of uncoated aluminum for food contact
NGO: Incinerators challenge waste management
European Environmental Bureau reports on high per capita waste generation, funding of incinerators inhibiting waste prevention and recycling