Legislation and Regulatory Framework

This chapter examines the EU legislation (directives and regulations) related to flexible packaging and packaging waste. It also briefly reviews the legislation and regulative measures taken in selected countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, China, India, and Southeast Asia. The two main frameworks that are applied in the packaging industry for the effective control of waste, namely the Sustainable materials management and the circular economy, are also examined. Further, the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) environmental policy approach is discussed, as well the obligations of the producers for the removal of single-use plastic products pursuant to the EPR provisions as described in Directive (EU) 2019/904. Finally, the various programs, initiatives, and campaigns to raise awareness and encourage consumers to recycle packaging films and plastic bags are presented.