Norway bypasses EU regulations. Key system is saved
Norway will obtain an exemption from EU packaging requirements. The government confirms that the country meets the conditions. The deposit system will remain unchanged.
Reusable systems require additional logistics.
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The Norwegian government has announced a solution regarding new EU regulations. It concerns the requirement to reuse beverage packaging. The industry has opposed the changes for two years, citing costs and environmental impact. Now the country is set to receive an exemption.
Exemption conditions met
Climate Minister Andreas Bjelland Eriksen announced the decision, emphasizing that Norway meets three EU criteria. The assessment was carried out by the Norwegian Environment Agency. The findings confirm a high level of recycling, paving the way for the exemption.
The conditions cover several areas. The country must maintain a high level of material recovery. There is also a requirement to reduce packaging waste. Companies must have their own action plans. The exemption is granted for five years. The first period will be valid until 2035.
The conditions cover several areas. The country must maintain a high level of material recovery. There is also a requirement to reduce packaging waste. Companies must have their own action plans. The exemption is granted for five years. The first period will be valid until 2035.
Norway's deposit system is among the most efficient in Europe.Photo: pixabay.com
Costs and industry opposition
The beverage industry has criticized the EU regulations from the start, pointing to the need to return to old reusable bottles. The system would require washing and additional transport. Analyses indicate this would increase emissions. The changes would also mean high costs.
The deposit system operator, Infinitum, estimated the costs could reach up to NOK 2.5 billion per year. Retailers also reported problems, mainly logistics and store space. Backroom renovations would be necessary. The majority of parliament supported the opposition in 2024.
The deposit system operator, Infinitum, estimated the costs could reach up to NOK 2.5 billion per year. Retailers also reported problems, mainly logistics and store space. Backroom renovations would be necessary. The majority of parliament supported the opposition in 2024.
Government's change of stance
The minister previously viewed the EU regulations more positively. Over time, new analyses emerged, indicating that the current system may be better for the environment. This led to a change in approach. The government decided to use available exemptions.
The formal decision will be made within the European Economic Area framework. The government emphasizes that the conditions are met. Further extensions of the exemption are possible, provided current standards are maintained. The industry plans to take action at the EU level.
The formal decision will be made within the European Economic Area framework. The government emphasizes that the conditions are met. Further extensions of the exemption are possible, provided current standards are maintained. The industry plans to take action at the EU level.
The EU aims to increase the level of packaging reusePhoto: Katrine Lunke, Infinitum press materials
Industry representatives announce further dialogue with the European Commission. The goal is more permanent legal solutions. At the same time, efforts to reduce waste will continue. The deposit system remains a key element of environmental policy. Further decisions will depend on the assessment of results in the coming years.
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