MEPs back the proposal on plastic carrier bags
EU states would have to reduce the consumption of most common and polluting plastic bags by 80% by 2019.
EU states would have to reduce the consumption of most common and polluting plastic bags by 80% by 2019.
Preliminary investigation had expressed competition concerns in the market of suspension polyvinyl chloride, says European Commission.
Member states will choose the most appropriate measures to reduce their use of plastic carrier bags.
Mixed plastic waste will be used to produce flood barriers.
Five countries already achieved the EU target to recycle 50% of household and similar waste by 2020.
The European Commission launched a public consultation in 2011 asking for individuals and businesses to give their views on whether the European Union should tax or altogether ban plastic carrier bags in order to tackle rising levels of plastic waste.
The European Commission adopted an amendment under its REACH law to ban the use of cadmium in plastics, and brazing sticks (which are used to join metals) and create new restrictions on its use.
PlasticsEurope, the association of European plastics manufacturers, welcomes today`s adoption of the revised EU Waste Framework Directive by the European Parliament. The directive marks an important step towards improved resource efficiency and the reduction of landfill in Europe, thus decreasing greenhouse gas emissions and protecting the climate.