The return of plastic straws in the USA, while the EU tightens regulations

The European Union is tightening packaging regulations, aiming to reduce plastic usage and increase recycling. Meanwhile, the Trump administration has announced the return of plastic straws, reversing previous regulations and emphasizing its business-driven priorities. These conflicting decisions highlight how different approaches to environmental policies shape the future of the packaging industry worldwide, influencing both global supply chains and local markets.

New EU regulations – less waste, more recycling

On February 5, 2025, the European Union adopted new packaging regulations aimed at reducing waste and increasing recycling efficiency. These regulations, approved by representatives of the European Council and the European Parliament, will come into effect in January 2026, giving companies time to adapt to the new requirements.

The adopted regulations include:
• less unnecessary packaging – limiting excessive use of packaging, such as large boxes for small products;
• more recycled materials – new packaging must contain a specified percentage of recycled raw materials;
• ban on selected plastic packaging – single-use plastic containers for fruits and vegetables, packaging for meals served on-site, and single-use cosmetic bottles in hotels will no longer be permitted;
• greater support for reusable packaging – companies, especially restaurants and online retailers, will be required to introduce packaging that can be reused;
• better labeling on packaging – labels will be clearer and more precise to help consumers properly sort waste and improve recycling.

The new regulations align with the broader European Green Deal strategy and aim to reduce carbon emissions, decrease dependence on fossil-based raw materials, and improve the functioning of the single market. By 2040, the EU aims to reduce total packaging waste by 15% compared to 2018 levels.

Restrictions Lifted – The Return of Plastic Straws

In contrast to the European Union, the administration of Donald Trump decided to lift restrictions on the use of plastic straws. On February 10, 2025, the U.S. president signed an executive order reversing previous regulations introduced by his predecessor, Joe Biden, which had restricted the use of single-use plastic products.

According to the Trump administration, this decision was made to support the American plastics industry and reduce regulations that excessively interfered with business operations. The return of plastic straws is part of a broader U.S. economic policy, where environmental protection measures shift with changes in the ruling party.

What Are the Changes Resulting from the Ban Reversal?

• No obligation to use eco-friendly alternatives – government institutions are no longer required to use biodegradable substitutes for plastic disposables.
• Plastic returns to the food industry – restaurants and catering companies can once again use plastic straws and utensils without restrictions.
• Each state decides independently – individual states can introduce their own regulations on plastic, but at the federal level, bans have been lifted.

Two Different Approaches to Environmental Protection

The European Union and the United States have adopted radically different approaches to regulating packaging and single-use products. While the EU aims to reduce waste and promote a circular economy, focusing on minimizing environmental impact and adapting to global eco-friendly trends, the United States prioritizes deregulation and protecting domestic industry, emphasizing economic growth and reducing business restrictions.

These diverging strategies could have a significant impact on shaping future international regulations and global environmental standards.

main photo: Angela Compagnone / Unsplash