Earth Day is an annual event held every April 22 to raise public awareness about the need to protect the environment and take concrete steps toward sustainability. Established in 1970, this day serves as a moment to reflect on the importance of preserving natural resources and minimizing the negative impact of human activities on the global ecosystem.
The Origins and Purpose of Earth Day
Earth Day began in the United States as part of an environmental movement aimed at raising awareness about pressing issues like air and water pollution. Today, it engages millions of people worldwide — from schools and local communities to businesses and international institutions — through events, demonstrations, and campaigns that promote responsible and informed behavior toward nature.
European Market: The European Green Deal
The European Green Deal is a long-term growth strategy launched by the European Commission in December 2019. Its goal is to make Europe the first climate-neutral continent by 2050.
This pact sets a broad vision and serves as the foundation for many of the EU’s environmental policies and laws. One of the most recent measures is Regulation (EU) 2025/40 — a key step toward meeting sustainability targets.
Regulation (EU) 2025/40
On January 22, 2025, Regulation (EU) 2025/40 on packaging and packaging waste was published in the Official Journal of the European Union. The goal is to significantly reduce packaging waste (both in volume and weight), promote recycling, and encourage reuse. This regulation amends Regulation (EU) 2019/1020 and repeals Directive 94/62/EC (except for certain provisions).
The regulation will be fully enforceable starting August 12, 2026.
What Does the Regulation Include?
Key provisions:
- Use of lighter packaging and elimination of unnecessary materials
- By 2030, 10% of packaging for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages must be reusable
- Mandatory minimum use of recycled materials by 2030, increasing through 2040
- Ban on certain chemicals (including PFAS) above set limits in food packaging
- Standardized packaging design and clearer labeling across the EU to improve waste sorting
- Ban on single-use plastic packaging starting January 1, 2030 — e.g., for fresh fruits and vegetables, and food/beverage containers in bars and restaurants
Additional highlights:
- Starting February 12, 2027, customers must be allowed to use their own containers for takeout food and drinks
- Starting February 12, 2028, establishments must offer a reusable packaging option for takeout — without passing costs on to consumers
Another major aspect is the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) principle. Producers must issue an EU declaration of conformity and will be responsible for the end-of-life management of their packaging.
What About Imported Packaging?
For packaging coming from outside the EU, importers must ensure compliance with the regulation and provide documentation to national authorities upon request.
What Does This Mean for Consumers?
The regulation is expected to bring positive outcomes for consumers:
- Greater transparency about packaging materials
- Easier and more accurate waste disposal
- Restrictions on certain harmful chemicals in food packaging
What About Businesses?
For businesses, the impact will be more significant — especially financially. They will be required to:
- Redesign packaging and adopt sustainable technologies
- Cover R&D costs for sustainable solutions
- Face increased production costs
- Invest in efficient recycling systems
- Pay for the costs of collection, recycling, and disposal
- Comply with new labeling requirements
- Take on more responsibility for the full life cycle of packaging
- Risk fines and penalties for non-compliance
That said, companies that adapt quickly may benefit in the long run:
- Better market positioning, especially among eco-conscious consumers
- Potential government incentives
- Reduced environmental impact
- Less waste and more efficient resource use
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