What's new?
Since January 1, 2023, restaurants, delivery services and grocery stores must offer their guests reusable containers as an alternative to disposable containers and also take them back. There are different regulations for smaller and larger businesses (see detailed information).
Consumers can choose between disposable and reusable packaging.
Those who opt for reusable containers avoid the ever-increasing amount of packaging waste. At the same time, the consumption of disposable packaging is reduced. This protects the environment and makes a sustainable contribution to environmental protection.
Those who actively ask for reusable containers are inviting food and drink providers to help shape environmental protection in a practical way.
The common goal: to make an important and sustainable contribution to waste prevention and environmental and climate protection with "reusable instead of disposable".
Detailed information:
The amendment to the Packaging Act introduced new regulations for companies, smaller businesses and vending machines on January 1, 2023:
- Catering businesses, delivery services and grocery stores with five or more employees and 80 square meters of sales area are obliged to offer their guests reusable containers as an alternative to disposable containers. The reusable containers can be issued via a deposit system, for example.
- Smaller businesses (e.g. kiosks, petrol stations, market stalls) must allow their customers to fill their own containers or voluntarily offer reusable packaging.
- Vending machines can also comply with the reusable packaging requirement.
Important for all three groups:
- Customers must be made aware of the reusable offer or the filling of containers they have brought with them via clearly visible and legible information boards.
- There are various systems and companies that offer reusable containers for the catering trade. The team at the Lower Waste Authority will be happy to help you find the right solution.
Flyer informs about changes
The most important innovations are summarized in a flyer. The flyer is available in the town hall in Lebenstedt and in the small town hall in Salzgitter-Bad.
read out